Leslie Allen Cross passed away peacefully in Mount Vernon, Washington, on May 24, 2024.

Les was born in Somers, Montana, on September 21, 1927, to Fred and Mabel Mckinley Cross. He grew up in Somers and then Kalispell, Montana, and went to Flathead County High School where he found his two loves: Eva Jean and sports. He lettered in high school baseball, basketball, and football receiving a full scholarship to college and eventually earning a master’s degree in physical education. He enlisted at 17 in the US Navy and served during World War 2. He was drafted by the LA Dodgers but chose a life with Eva Jean and to raise a family instead.

Les and Eva Jean moved to Oak Harbor, Washington, in 1959, where they built a strong family and community of friends, living in the same house for 62 years. They were married for 72 years before Eva Jean passed away in 2020.

Les taught at Oak HarborJunior High School and dedicated his career to ensuring that his students appreciated the benefits of physical fitness. After he retired, he enjoyed (some would say “too much”) golfing, watching sports, hiking, fishing, pranking his friends and generally enjoying life. His own physical fitness allowed him to enjoy an active lifestyle for most of his long life.

Les is survived by his four children, Craig (wife Susan), Diane (husband Rick), Connie (husband Alan), and Gina (husband Brad), 12 grandchildren, and 14 great grandchildren, all of whom will miss him very much.

There will be no service, per his wishes, but donations in his name may be sent to the following organizations: Healthy Island Youth Initiative | Island County, WA (islandcountywa.gov), and/or Home – Youth Dynamics (yd.org).