Victor W. Cross, 81, in the presence of the Lord and family, passed away on March 16, 2025, at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center. He was born on December 28, 1943, in Wichita, Kansas, to Richard and Lucy Cross.
Victor graduated from Hutchinson High School and soon after enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving his country faithfully, with much of his time spent in Germany. Upon his return, he met the love of his life, Janice Schiewe, and after just three months of knowing each other, they married on December 7, 1968. They recently celebrated their 56th anniversary with a trip to the Caribbean.
A stranger to no one and a friend to everyone, Victor had a gift for conversation and loved meeting new people. One of his greatest joys was sharing stories about his children and grandchildren. Known affectionately as the “Candy Man,” he always had candy in his pocket, a simple yet meaningful way to break the ice and start a conversation. An avid golfer, Victor cherished his time on the course, enjoying the beauty of the outdoors and sharing stories along the way.
Victor was a devoted member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Hutchinson, where he served in various roles over the years. As his children were growing up, he eagerly sponsored and chaperoned youth group trips, always bringing laughter and joy while sharing God’s love in his own unique way. In his later years, he found purpose in visiting shut-ins, bringing companionship and comfort to those unable to leave their homes. Even during his recent health struggles, he remained concerned for those he visited and longed to return to his ministry.
Victor was proud of his military service and was often seen wearing his Army Veteran hat. He also proudly wore his Kansas Honor Flight hat, which he received during his 2021 trip to Washington, D.C., where he joined fellow veterans in touring the nation’s capital.
Victor is survived by his beloved wife, Janice; children, Marcy Cross (Stacy) of Wichita, Mark Cross (Suzanne) of Wichita, and Monte Cross (Michelle) of Buhler; grandchildren, Ansley, McKinley, Riley, Mallory, Molly, and Mitchel; great-grandchild, Ryeder; brother Robert Cross Sr of Hutchinson; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Raymond, Jack, Richard; sisters Helen and Maudee.
Victor had a deep love for travel, especially to the Caribbean, and he wished for his funeral to be a joyous celebration of his life. He requested that those attending wear flowered or brightly colored shirts in his honor.
Celebration of Life service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, 407 E. 12th, Hutchinson, with Pastor Henry Blickhahn officiating. Burial will follow with military honors conducted by the Fort Riley Honor Guard, at the Buhler East Cemetery.
Visitation will be Wednesday, March 19, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary, with the family present to receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday in the Fellowship Hall at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church.
Memorials may be sent to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church Youth Group or the Our Redeemer Lutheran Food Bank, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.