Allan Merrill Cross

Allan Merrill Cross passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026, at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, quiet strength, and lifelong service to his family, his students, and his community.

Born on January 18, 1938, in Denver, Colorado, Allan was the cherished son of Merrill and Isabel Cross. He grew up in a close-knit family alongside his older sister, Alice (Anderson), and his younger brother, Arnold. Known affectionately as “Sonny,” he was admired from an early age for his steady character, thoughtful nature, and warm sense of humor.

As a boy, Allan learned the value of hard work and perseverance. He proudly earned the rank of Eagle Scout, an accomplishment that reflected the integrity and determination that would guide him throughout his life. He often delighted family and friends with lively stories from his youth, especially memories of delivering newspapers for The Denver Post. These experiences shaped both his independence and his gift for storytelling.

Allan graduated from East High School in Denver and continued his education at the University of Denver, where he earned his Master’s Degree in Accounting in 1964. His love of learning naturally evolved into a passion for teaching.

During his early adult years and first marriage, Allan welcomed two beloved children, Kenneth and Heather Cross, who remained a lifelong source of pride and joy.

In the 1970s, while serving as a professor of accounting at Metropolitan State College of Denver, Allan met Donna, a determined student who was working hard to succeed in his class. With his encouragement and guidance, she earned an A, and soon after, mutual respect blossomed into a deep and lasting love. Allan and Donna were married on November 11, 1977, in Hawaii, joyfully blending their families and beginning a partnership that would define the rest of their lives.

In the years that followed, Allan and Donna lived with warmth, laughter, and the simple joys of togetherness.

Michael and Michelle (Hawkins) grew up surrounded by Allan’s steady presence, treasuring memories of bike rides, shared laughter, and magical summers spent in the mountains of Eldora, where family time and Colorado’s natural beauty created moments that would be remembered for generations. Heather and Ken spent many cherished weekends building traditions and lasting bonds.

Later in life, one of Allan’s greatest delights was becoming “Opa” to Michelle’s sons, Andrew and Daniel (De Souza). He embraced his role as grandfather with quiet pride and deep affection, sharing stories, wisdom, and gentle encouragement that reflected his lifelong devotion to family.

Professionally, Allan was widely respected throughout the Denver community. For more than fifty years, he successfully operated his CPA firm, serving generations of clients with expertise, integrity, and genuine care. His dedication to education never faded; even into his later years, he continued teaching both in person and online, shaping the futures of countless students who benefited from his knowledge and mentorship.

Allan will be remembered as a man of humility, intelligence, and unwavering commitment. A loving husband, devoted father and grandfather, trusted advisor, and inspiring teacher. His life was a testament to the quiet power of kindness, perseverance, and lifelong learning.

His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him, and in the many lives he touched through his guidance, generosity, and steadfast love.

He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Instead of flowers, the family suggests a contribution to The City of Lakewood Memorial Tree Program in memory of Allan Merrill Cross. A tree will be planted in Allan’s memory at Holbeook Park in Lakewood, CO. https://venmo.com/code?user_id=3557305278792968596