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Michael Cross, 63, passed away on February 13, 2025, in Alamogordo, New Mexico. He was born on April 19, 1961, in Seattle, Washington to Joe and Gretchen (Callison) Cross.
Mike’s life was defined by passion, family, and an unwavering drive to do what he loved. Born with a racer’s heart and a community spirit, he lived a life that left tracks, not just on the dirt and pavement, but on the hearts of everyone who knew him.
Mike’s journey brought him to Alamogordo in the summer of 1971. Just a fifth grader then, it wasn’t long before he discovered his love for motorcycles, a passion that would become a lifelong pursuit. He graduated from Alamogordo High School in 1979, and in 1985, he began his career at Bennett Printing, marking the start of his deep-rooted connection to his community.
But if printing was his craft, racing was his soul. From the trails at Red Sands to the stock car track at Sertoma, Mike’s love for the sport was undeniable. In 1997, his dedication and skill earned him the title of Rookie of the Year, along with several Championships, achievements that spoke to his determination and talent. His car was more than a machine, it was a reflection of his pride, hard work, and passion.
Yet, Mike’s greatest victory came off the track. In 1993, he met the love of his life, Rhonda. They married on April 8, 1995, beginning a partnership built on love, adventure, and a shared passion for racing. Together with their children, Lora and Layne, they made countless memories at the track, laughing, cheering, and living life at full throttle.
Mike’s entrepreneurial spirit shone in 2004, when he co-founded AC Print & Design with his longtime business partner Eva Arone. With hard work and heart, they built the business into a cornerstone of the Alamogordo community, known as much for their service as for their integrity.
In 2012, Mike earned a new title, Papa, with the birth of his first grandchild, who shares his same name. Sharing his love of racing with his grandkids became one of his greatest joys.
From motorcycles to four-wheelers, every ride carried the echoes of his passion and the lessons of his life, chase your dreams, love your family, and always give your best. Mike’s life was one of dedication, to his wife, his children, his grandchildren, his friends, and his community. He leaves behind a legacy that will never fade, the roar of an engine, the warmth of his laughter, and the endless love he poured into every role he held, husband, dad, papa, son, brother, mentor, and friend.
Though the checkered flag has waved on his race, Mike’s spirit lives on in every heart he touched. His story isn’t over, it’s simply passed on to those he loved most.
Forever riding. Forever racing. Forever loved.
Survivors include his wife, Rhonda Cross of the family home; his daughter, Lora and husband Chantz O'Byrne of Las Cruces; son, Layne Harris and girlfriend Sara Harcrow of Alamogordo; four grandchildren, Bryce-Michael, Brennan, Madison and Phoenix; two brothers, Patrick Cross of Rio Rancho, NM and Rodney Cross and wife Kerri of Amarillo, TX; two nieces and a nephew.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe B. and Gretchen Cross; sister, Joyce; brothers, David and Mark.
