In Loving Memory…
Thomas R. Cross
April 12, 1942 – September 27, 2022
After eight decades of a life well lived, Tom Cross passed away peacefully in Colorado Springs, CO at the age of 80, with his family by his side. After receiving a late diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (at the age of 72), it was almost as though the force of Tom’s personality kept the MS at bay until his body was too old to fight it any longer. But a “fighter” in life is who Tom was to the end. Growing up in the rough city of Flint, Michigan he had to learn to stand up for himself and those tough times shaped him into the person he became, and the life he pursued, as an advocate fighting for others.
Tom attended the University of Michigan where he received a Bachelor’s degree in Business. He was then encouraged by others to go to law school because he was always advocating and arguing about something. He was accepted into the prestigious University of Michigan Law School where he graduated with his Juris Doctorate before moving to Colorado.
While working for MetLife in Colorado Springs, a young beauty caught his eye and captured his heart. He married his sweetheart, Patricia Ann Witham, in 1970 and with her loving support by his side, he passed the Colorado Bar Exam and moved on to the profession he was destined to be a part of for the next 42 years.
Described as a “legendary lawyer” by a past President of the Colorado Bar Association, Tom earned his admirable reputation as a Family Law attorney in Colorado Springs. His accolades included being a Martindale-Hubbell AV rated attorney, which is the gold standard in peer and client ratings recognizing lawyers for their strong legal ability and high ethical standards and integrity. He was also recognized nationally as being a top-rated lawyer by both “Super Lawyers” and “Best Lawyers in America.” Tom also served as the President of the El Paso County Bar Association from 1982-83 and then served as the President of the Colorado Bar Association from 1991-92 where he focused on the professional ethics to which attorneys are bound.
In addition, as part of his notable professional career, Tom also offered hundreds of hours of his professional services pro bono to the under privileged. However, Tom was also very involved in issues that affected the community. His leadership and dedication moved him to serve as the Chairman of the El Paso County Democratic Party. Publicly and politically, Tom fought for women’s rights and civil rights, as well as fighting against the passage of Amendment 2 in Colorado. He was involved in various community organizations including helping to transform the Colorado Springs Orchestra as the President of what became the Colorado Springs Philharmonic.
As good as he was at practicing law, and as dedicated as he was to serving the community, he was an even better father and husband and was completely devoted to his family. As a consummate sports fan, especially for his alma mater, the only games that mattered more than Michigan games, were those where one of his three children or 10 grandchildren were on the team. Countless hours were spent cheering on and supporting everyone in all of their endeavors. Family time was paramount, and he was able to provide experiences that brought the family together and created memories that will live on forever.
In retirement while he still had his health, if he wasn’t riding his Harley with Pat, they were spending time on their ranch in Nebraska where they enjoyed 200 acres with plenty of room to roam, six Clydesdale horses, hay to bail and time to spend together while enjoying frequent visits from family.
Tom is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 52 years, Patricia, along with his children Scott, Stephanie and Tim. He was an amazing “Pop Pop” to his 10 grandchildren: Brittany, Erika, Victoria, Thomas, Christopher, Natali, Adam, Erin, Cody and Rowan, who were all fortunate enough to have special opportunities and numerous experiences with their grandpa because of what he so generously offered to his family. Before passing, Tom was also able to meet his first great grandson, Arthur, and he currently has a great granddaughter on the way.
Tom’s strength and intellect were towering; his kindness and compassion were fundamental to every decision he made. He lived life to the fullest and as he moved forward he didn’t leave anything in the tank. As the keystone of his family, and as a pillar of strength in the community, Tom will be greatly missed, but his legacy will live on.
A memorial service to honor Tom’s life will be held at 2PM, Saturday, October 8, 2022, at Shrine of Remembrance “America the Beautiful” Chapel, 1730 East Fountain Boulevard, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80910.
A reception will follow the memorial service.
Craig and Martha Puckett
2 Oct 2022Sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. The loss of a loved one is never easy. May you find comfort and joy in remembering happy moments together. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers.
Cindy Landsberg
2 Oct 2022What a wonderful and inspiring summary of Tom’s life. He was loved by many and will be sorely missed. He was a brother and law partner to my late husband David Quicksall and an admired friend by my husband Bill Landsberg and me.
Michael Shoback
3 Oct 2022I am sorry to hear of Tom’s illness passing. Many years ago, Tom and Pat passed me on Woodmoor Drive in Monument the day before Thanksgiving during a big snowstorm. I was walking home with several heavy bags of groceries from L & L Supers; and struggling against the strong wind. (Our driveway and street had not been plowed and I could not use our car). They were kind enough to pick me up and drive me to our cul-de-sac so I could make it home with the food for Thanksgiving dinner.
Tom and Pat probably forgot about this gesture BUT I never forget their kindness. I was young and an ex-Marine who thought I could handle anything; but I doubt I would have made it home with the groceries without their help.
Ed McCord
3 Oct 2022Please accept my condolences to the Cross family. Tom was one of the lawyers that I really looked up to when Mari and I moved to Colorado Springs in 1981. I will never forget his passionate arguments so eloquently made in the courtroom and in the political arena.
Anonymous
4 Oct 2022Our community lost a great lawyer and friend.
MARY AND JIM ROBBINS
4 Oct 2022Tom – Thanks so much for your legal help throughout the years. You will be missed by family and friends. In lieu of flowers, a donation will be sent to the MS foundation. God Bless. Jim and Mary
Robbins
Gary Atkins
4 Oct 2022Our love and sympathy are with you Cousin Pat and to Scott, Stephanie and Tim along with all the grandchildren. May the memories of the wonderful husband, father and grandfather your lives were blessed with bring peace and joy to your hearts.
Gary and Patricia Atkins & Family
Jane O'Brien
6 Oct 2022I am so sorry that Tom is not with us anymore. I enjoyed doing work for him in the past and loved his humor. My prayers go out to you, Pat, and your family.
Rebecca Bromley
7 Oct 2022Fondly remember Tom Cross in the courtroom and in bar association activities. Great attorney and fine man. Rebecca Bromley, retired judge
Adolfo & Cristina Hannig
7 Oct 2022Our deepest condolences to all in the Cross family for Tom’s passing away. Our thoughts and prayers of much love, peace and light go to him and every member in his family. We share with Tom and Pat a beautiful grandaughter, Erika, whom we know how much the four of us dearly love, cherish and are most grateful for as a most precious jewel in each of our hearts and souls till eternity. Fly high Tom and may the sweetest angels accompany you in your return to the Light.
Cindy Cockrell
8 Oct 2022My sympathy and love to Pat and the entire Cross family. I am praying for your comfort and peace as you mourn the loss of Tom. God be with you always.