Ralph L. Cross Jr.

Ralph L. Cross Jr., age 87, of Harwinton and formerly of Waterbury entered into rest on Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at Waterbury Hospital.  He was the devoted husband of Edinna (Klies) Cross for over 68 years.  Ralph was born on November 24, 1935 in Waterbury, son of the late Ralph L. Cross Sr. and Mary (Shove) Cross Ryan.

Ralph was a well-known contractor in the Waterbury area, he began his trade at the early age of 17 and continued on until his retirement in 2022.  He served his country with honor and pride with the US Navy and the SeaBees (Navy Reserves) for many years.  Ralph was an Instrument Rated Pilot, and enjoyed motorcycling until well into his 70’s.  He was a proud member of the Mattatuck Drum Band and was Snare Drum Sergeant for 7 years.  Ralph and Edinna achieved the Gold Level in Latin dancing.  Ralph loved spending time with his family and friends, and sharing his hobbies with them.

In addition to his wife, Edinna, Ralph is survived by his son, Ralph H. Cross and Toni of Florida; his sister-in-law, Heidi Klies; and his nephews, Jason Goldberg and his wife, Cassie; Chris Goldberg, Aaron Goldberg, Frederick W. Klies Jr., Eric Klies, and Sean Welch.  He was predeceased by his son, James R. Cross and his brother-in-law, Frederick W. Klies Sr and his sister-in-law, Jacqueline Klies.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at 11AM at St. Thomas Roman Catholic Church, 1 E. Main Street, Thomaston, CT.  Please meet directly at church. Full Military Honors will be rendered at the conclusion of Mass.  Burial will be private and at the convenience of his family.  Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of one’s choice.  The Alderson-Ford Funeral Home of Waterbury is assisting his family with his arrangements.  To leave online condolences for his family, please visit www.fordfh.com 

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