Gerry M. Cross

OTTAWA -- Gerry Mason Cross, 61, of Ottawa, died Thursday, Sept. 25, 2008, at his home with his family at his side following a brave battle with pancreatic cancer. A celebration of "G's" life will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at Bethel Lutheran Church with the Rev. Tim Johnson officiating. Burial will be in Oakwood Memorial Park with military services. Visitation will be from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday at the Ottawa Funeral Home and from 10 to 11 a.m. Monday at the church. Born Nov. 29, 1946, in Ottawa, he was the son of Ward "Jiggs" and Mamie (Mason) Cross. Gerry graduated from Ottawa Township High School, Class of 1964. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1966 to 1970, including service in Vietnam. He graduated from Southern Illinois University in 1973 with a degree in business. For the past 10 years he has been part of the team at Plymouth Tube Company of Warrenville at their Streator mill. He was currently their technical services manager. He married Sherry Myre on Sept. 28, 1974, in Ottawa. Their daughter, M Kathleen "Katy" was born Sept. 27, 1980. For the following years he was involved in everything Katy and her friends were, having fun being a dad. Gerry was the best dad, the best friend to the best of friends, sharing great times; the best little brother to Terry (Eleanore) Cross and their family of North Carolina. He was a wonderful son and husband. Gerry was involved with Crime Stoppers of Ottawa, currently serving as vice president, a member of the VFW and Bethel Lutheran Church. Gerry was preceded in death by his parents. Pallbearers will be Kenny Bruck, Denny Bute, Terry Fischer, Tom Grady, Bill Midnight, Bob Murley and Dennis Williams. Honorary pallbearers will be Nick Benson, Jim Lair, John Zeilman and Curt McDowell. You can view Gerry's Timeless Tribute video at: www.ottawafh.yourtribute.com