Del Cross

Delwyn “Del” Cross, 91, of Milbank, SD, passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at St. William’s Care Center in Milbank.

Delwyn “Del’ Roy Cross was born on July 18, 1935, to Roy and Nora (Nelson) Cross in Bemidji, MN. Del attended school in Bemidji and graduated with the class of 1953. He was baptized as an adult at the Bemidji Methodist Church in Bemidji, MN.

Del began his career as a custodian at the Minnesota National Guard Armory in Bemidji, MN. He later joined the national guard unit earning the rank of Supply Sergeant. Del proudly served from 1953 to 1963 with Co. E, 136th Infantry, 47th “Viking” Division. He then began his longtime career with Otter Tail Power Company, working as a plant operator at plants in Bemidji, Fergus Falls, and the Big Stone Power Plant. He retired in 1997, after many years of dedicated service.

Del’s dream was to find a cook and nurse, with Deloris he found both. He married the love of his life, Deloris Jensen, on August 26, 1972, at Grafton Lutheran Church in Grafton, ND. Together, they shared many wonderful years filled with love, laughter, travel, and countless memories. Del was proud to say they never had an argument in their 53 years of marriage.

Outside of work, Del found great joy in serving others and being involved in his community. He enjoyed gardening, volunteering, traveling, and especially square dancing. Del and Deloris shared a deep love for square dancing and spent many years traveling throughout the region to attend dances and events. Their involvement extended beyond participation, as he served as an officer in square dance clubs at both the local and state levels. Del enjoyed walking in the pool at Unity Square for exercise.

Del was active in many organizations and service opportunities. He was involved with the Milbank Garden Club at the district and state levels, served as a church usher for Central Church in Milbank, and participated on the worship and trustee committees. Del was humbled to have the Milbank Area Backpack Program renamed Crossroads Backpack Program in honor of his 13 years of dedication to the program

He is survived by his loving wife, Deloris Cross, of Milbank, SD; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents: Roy and Nora Cross, and his sisters: Wanda Balzell and Wilda Ulmer.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, July 28 at Central Church in Milbank, SD. Burial was at Milbank City Cemetery.