Stephen D. Cross, 81, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones at the Southern Utah Veteran’s Home in Ivins, Utah, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born on August 25, 1943, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Dennis and Kathryn Carlson Cross, Steve spent his early years in a small town where doors were rarely locked, and life was simple and full of promise.
On August 20, 1966, he married the love of his life, Lillian A. Kober at the Saint Rose Catholic Church in Great Bend, Kansas. Their love and partnership would span nearly six decades, marked by shared devotion to family, faith, and service.
Steve attended Saint Joseph Military Academy in Hays, Kansas and later earned admission to the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where he excelled academically and demonstrated strong leadership. Upon graduation, he trained as a pilot in the KC-135 and was stationed at Ramey Air Force Base in Puerto Rico. There he participated in three “Young Tiger” deployments, served as a flight instructor for aspiring pilots, was active in the Civil Air Patrol (CAP), and earned his MBA from Inter American University of Puerto Rico.
Steve later flew the O-2 and B-52 aircraft, completing multiple missions in Southeast Asia and earning numerous citations for his outstanding performance. He trained as an aircraft accident investigator and also piloted the T-39, transporting generals across the country. In 1978, Steve was medically retired as a Major from the Air Force due to health challenges but continued to demonstrate resilience, undergoing years of treatment and recovery. He then began a second successful career in banking with First Interstate Bank in Southern California.
Steve approached life with energy, curiosity and compassion. He was an avid stamp collector, jogger, hiker, gardener, puzzle enthusiast, and skilled home chef who loved preparing meals for his family and friends. While living in Redlands, California, he was a dedicated Boy Scout Leader, teaching essential survival skills and mentoring young scouts.
After retiring to St. George, Utah, Steve and Lillian became active members of their parish, dedicating over 30 years to church and community service. Steve managed the Catholic Thrift Store, where he organized donations, coordinated volunteers, and supported those in need with generosity and heart. He played a key role in founding the Knights of Columbus chapters in St. George and Cedar City, holding numerous officer positions. He was instrumental in fundraising and planning for the construction of the Kuzy Church building, a project that earned him national recognition.
Steve’s life was a reflection of faith, service, and steadfast love – for his country, his church, and above all his family. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Lillian; his sister Sue; his brother, David; his children: Laura and Greg; and his many treasured grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dennis and Kathryn; and two brothers: Tom and Joe.
Steve’s remains will be interred at the Riverside National Cemetery, Riverside, California at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to your favorite organization dedicated to serving and supporting our nation’s veterans.
A Rosary will be recited on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m., held at the St. George Catholic Church located at 259 West 200 North.
Arrangements entrusted to the care of Metcalf Mortuary, (435) 673-4221. Please visit our website at www.metcalfmortuary.com for condolences, complete obituary, and funeral listings.