Neil Harold CROSS

CROSS, NORRIS, SAMS

Posted By: Sarah Thorson Little (email)
Date: 2/10/2024 at 13:06:47

Neil Harold Cross
December 19, 1950 --- May 9, 2020

Neil Harold Cross was born December 19, 1950, to Marjorie Norris Cross and Lewis Harold Cross of Dows, Iowa. Neil passed away on May 9, 2020, after a brief struggle with cancer at Iowa Methodist Hospital. He surrounded by his wife and daughters when he passed.

Neil grew up on a farm with his parents and brothers. He attended Dows Community Schools and was a member of the Dows United Methodist Church. He then went on to graduate from the University of Iowa and attended Garrett Evangelical Seminary in Evanston, Illinois. Neil was appointed to be an associate pastor at Mount Pleasant United Methodist Church. He then went on to serve as pastor to a three-point charge in Farnhamville and Somers where he met his wife Cheryl. They were married in 1986. As newlyweds, they served the Sibley United Methodist Church where they welcomed Michelle to their family. Neil was then appointed to the Pella United Methodist Church where Laura joined the family. Neil was appointed to New Hope United Methodist Church in 1997 where he was blessed to be the pastor for 17 years. In retirement, he briefly served Marquisville United Methodist Church, Farmers Chapel and Colfax United Methodist Church.

Neil is survived by his wife Cheryl (Sams) Cross, his daughter Michelle Cross of Ankeny, IA, daughter Laura Cross of Kansas City, Missouri, his brother Mike Cross and wife Evie of Hampton, IA, his brother Galyn Cross of Weslaco, Texas, his brother Doug and wife Rebecca Cross of Geneseo, Illinois and many nieces and nephews.

Neil will be remembered by his love and compassion for his parishioners, friends, and family. He had a wonderful sense of humor, his distinctive laugh, and his love of trains. His faith in God was obvious in his actions and words. Neil was a devoted husband and father, who was always there when needed by his family.

In lieu of flowers, memorials should be made out to New Hope General Fund and John Stoddard Cancer Center Foundation. We also would like everyone who is willing and able to make an appointment to donate blood in Neil's name. Many units of blood were used for his care and helped keep him comfortable his last few weeks.

https://www.ilesfuneralhomes.com/obituary/Neil-H.-Cross/Urbandale-Iowa/1873360