Obituary of Joseph William Cross Jr.

 

Joseph W. Cross Jr., 71, of Saginaw went to be with the Lord on Thursday, March 31, 2022. He was loved by many and will be remembered as a cherished father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.

He was born in Canton, Ohio on November 7, 1950 to Joseph W. Cross Sr. and Kathryn I. Cross (Riehl). Joe was a graduate of Kent State University High School. He went on to earn a degree in Business Administration from John Carroll University. Joe and his wife, Rita, moved from Ohio to Saginaw, Michigan in 1980 where he built his business, Scott Tire Sales, and raised a family. He retired from his business after 30 years.

Those who loved Joe would describe him as a faithful believer. He was a generous man who had a heart for his family and supporting those in need. He laughed easily and knew a little about everything. He enjoyed talking with loved ones and recalling stories from his youth, with good friends, at Congress Lake. Prior to having Multiple Sclerosis he enjoyed fishing, golfing and traveling. In the most recent years, he devoted time to Bible Study through Hopevale church, daily devotions and donating to global charities. Joe looked forward to talking with family and his good friend, Fred Keeler almost daily. He found joy in feeding the birds and squirrels in his yard, who he named (Ahab, tiny, Trixie and peanut).

He is survived by his sister Deirdre (Hank) Ventry and former wife Rita A. Cross. He is also survived by his daughters Nicole (Chad) Throop and Olivia Cross (Ryan Barnett) along with two grandchildren Noah and Lila Throop. Joe also leaves behind niece and nephews Suzanne Sheaffer, John Sheaffer and Henry Ventry III as well as great niece and nephew Ryan and Kathryn-Elizabeth Sheaffer.

He is preceded in death by his father, Joseph W. Cross Sr., mother, Kathryn I. Cross, sister, Denise Cross, brother-in-law, Duane Moran and niece, Nikki Peterson.

In keeping with Joseph’s wishes, cremation has taken place. There are no services planned at this time.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to Operation Smile, Hopevale Church’s Share Hope Fund or the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Deisler Funeral Home is honored to serve the Cross family. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family through www.deislerfuneralhome.com

 

 

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