Oscar Luis Cross Jr.

Oscar Luis Cross, JR was born September 30, 1968 in Brownsville, Texas. He passed away in Kansas City, KS August 2, 2024 in the arms of his wife and soulmate. Lovingly referred to as Pancho by parents and siblings, his friends and wife knew him as PJ or Sasquatch. Preceeded in death by his Mother: Nancy Nevins and Sister: Melissa Beck. He is survived by his wife, and favorite Hobbit: Ronda Cross; his Squatchling (son) Stephen Cross, Step-Squatchlings (Step-Sons) Sons Taryn and Lukas Zweygardt; Father Oscar L Cross, Sr; Sisters Debbie Northcutt and Johanna Weaver; Brother John Cross; his Army of Darkness (kitties) and 2 potatoes (Corgis). 

PJ spent many of his formative years in New Orleans where he learned the joys of music and food. He continued to be a musician throughout his life as well as a great cook. He loved to sing with his big, booming voice. Proficient with guitar, bass, and keyboard, he was best with the air guitar while performing karaoke and he owned approximately 10,000 air guitars and at least 60 actual guitars. An entertainer in all ways, he loved to be the center of attention. Sometimes slightly jealous, nevertheless always amazed, that his Hobbit was able to steal attention from him. PJ came to live in Kansas City in 1988. 

He was a Jack of All Trades but his main career was that of construction worker. He became a Sound Engineer later in life where he met many musicians in the KC Metro Area. His wife was convinced he was just easily distracted by shiny objects and had to jump to new trades and jobs. He played semi-professional football with the Kansas City Jazz for 14 years. He was fortunate enough to get the opportunity to try out for the Kansas City Chiefs at the age of 31. He finally retired from football at the age of 42. A huge Kansas City Chiefs and New Orleans Saints fan, you could catch him pacing like a caged tiger as the games intensified. His wife often feared for his health during those crazy games. PJ had the biggest heart with the potential for love that will never compare to another. 

He never knew a stranger and was always willing to be the first to help a friend in need. Many times, assisting people with moving, flat tires, hungry people at work, plumbing and electrical issues, he was the first to volunteer. He enlisted in the Marines in 1987 but was not able to serve. He remained a huge advocate for the military and servicemen. 

He serenaded many veterans and offered his music services whenever presented the opportunity. He was diagnosed with cancer in March 2024. He fully believed he would beat that horrible disease. Even as his health deteriorated, he would still help those in need, run "secret missions" for his wife, and work in the music industry. He has left an impression in the KC Metro area and across the country. 

He is missed by family and so many friends that became family. His memory and love lives on in those left behind. He is waiting for us, preparing a huge family dinner, stoking the bonfire, and tuning the guitars.