Gerald Geen Cross

Ocean Park resident Gerald G. "Jerry" Cross, 93, died October 18, 2009 in Ilwaco. Born in Omaha, Nebraska on August 18, 1917, he was the son of James Francis and Nelly Pearl (Gardner) Cross. In his youth he moved with his parents to Portland, Oregon where he graduated from Washington High School. Jerry's father was a conductor for the Union Pacific Railroad and Jerry followed in his father's steps, working for the UP was a switch tender until retirement in 1977. Jerry's son J. L. is the third generation of the family to work for the Union Pacific. In 1946 Jerry married Marjorie B. Clement and they established their residence in northeast Portland. Following retirement Jerry was owner of the B&B Tavern in Portland until moving to Ocean Park 32 years ago. Jerry enjoyed being a member of the Grange, Ocean Park Moose and Ocean Park Eagles where he was a past worthy president. For many years Jerry was a pool player extraordinaire and was proud of his nickname "the one armed bandit". Jerry is survived by his children M.E. "Peg", Maureen "Mo", Nancy "Nanc", James "J.L", and Melody "Mel"; his sister Corrine "Corky"; and 14 grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Marjorie. Memorial service will be held at Ocean Park Eagles No. 3602 at a date and time to be announced later. The guestbook is available at www.penttilaschapel.com.