Howard "Bob" Cross

Howard “Bob” R. Cross, 84, a lifelong resident of Indianapolis, passed away July 14, 2022. He was born January 8, 1938 to the late Howard Pierre and June F. (Florence) Cross. Bob proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, and married Doris L. Cole, April 22, 1960. He was a licensed plumber for Hession Plumbing and then with Hamm & Sons Plumbing for many years. Bob was an avid fisherman with adventures that included Canada, Mexico, Texas, Lake Okeechobee, and his home waters in Clay City, Indiana. From crankbaits to plastics, the master angler loved spending time on the water telling jokes and stories with anyone lucky enough to be in the boat. He was a devout family man that loved to spoil his grandchildren as well as watch over them with a more than cautious eye. “Little bites” He enjoyed going to school pageants, kids sporting events, and family holiday meals (which usually ended with the quote “I hate to eat and run but…”). Bob had a huge love for animals and had a habit of spoiling them as well. He had the fattest diabetic squirrels in the neighborhood and his dog’s vet was always preaching moderation. Bob had a tremendous appetite as well. Whether it was a double order of scallops, the “Big Kahuna” burrito, or a butterflied porkchop sandwich at the lake; the man could put away some food despite his small stature. Above all Bob was a Man’s Man. A rugged, hard exterior that exuded strength and confidence; with a Teddy bear like interior that was reserved for close friends, family and animals. He knew what he wanted and wasn’t afraid to let you know it. Visitation will be Saturday, July 23, 2022 from 12 noon until 3:00 p.m. at Shirley Brothers Fishers-Castleton Chapel, 9900 Allisonville Road. Howard “Bob” is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Doris Lee Cross; sons, Robert L. (Mary) Cross and William S. (Deanna) Cross; daughter, Jennifer L. (Brad) Forestal; grandchildren, Kathryn L. (Chris) Braun, Kaitlin M. (Augie) Carington, Joseph R. (Emily) Cross, Michael W. (Abby) Cross, Kasey R. (Jacob) Schroer, Halle A. Cross and Shelby R. Forestal; and great-grandchildren, Alexis, Addison, Annabelle, Otto, Rory, William and Jack. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for a small donation to the ASPCA in Bob’s name.

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Howard "Bob" Cross

January 8, 1938 - July 14, 2022