Clifford Thomas Cross

April 5, 1937 - April 14, 2025

We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our father, Clifford Cross, on Monday, April 14, 2025, at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. Born in Glace Bay, he was the son of the late Florence (Strickland) and Cecil Cross. Besides his parents he was predeceased by his wife Sheila (Munroe), older brother Calvin, brothers-in-law: Gerald Munroe (Jerry) and Neil MacDougall, sisters-in-law: Joyce (Matthews) Munroe and Sally Munroe. Prior to his retirement, he was employed by Sears Canada as a salesman for 33 years.

Dad will be remembered for his charisma, charm, humour, and generosity. He had many hobbies and interests including gardening, coin collecting, music, and cards. In his youth dad was quite the athlete having played both hockey and baseball.

Dad enjoyed a good party and longed to be able to join in when the music started so he decided to learn guitar as an adult. He took lessons but was embarrassed to be seen going in as most of the other students were kids, so he hid his instrument in the bushes until the coast was clear.

This may be the closest dad ever came to being shy. A natural storyteller and entertainer he was usually the centre of attention at any gathering.

Dad was a lucky man who got to be here for both a good time and a long time. He spent most of his 88 years married to the love of his life who was also “…the prettiest girl he’d ever seen”. It’s hard to capture what a character he was in a

few short paragraphs, but he was truly one of a kind. Cliff is survived by his children: Carol Ann (Ross) Cross-Roen, and Colin Cross, grandchildren: Mackenzie Cross (Anthony Carther) and Wade Roen, sisters-in-law: Margery MacDougall and Margaret (Breen) Cross, several nieces and nephews, and his beloved cat Mitsy. Those wishing to honour Cliff’s life should consider a donation to the SPCA or St. Mary’s Anglican Church of Glace Bay Cemetery Fund in his memory.

He spent his final days surrounded by friends and family and so much love that he didn’t want to let go. We can never adequately thank the amazing health care providers who cared for dad over the last two months.

Cremation has taken place as per Cliff’s wishes there will be no visitation or funeral service. A private family interment will be held at a later date

Words of comfort may be sent to the family by visiting www.tjtracey.com