ROSS CROSS CHILD

1953 – ROSS CROSS CHILD – 2026
Ross Cross Child, Issotsiinaomaahkaa “Wolverine Runner,” was called back to our Heavenly Father on Friday, February 13, 2026, at the age of 72 years. Ross was born on February 27, 1953, in Cardston, Alberta, to Annie Many Bears and William Cross Child Sr. He was raised with strong family values and cultural teachings that remained central throughout his life. He attended school in Drumheller, Alberta, and it was in elementary school, in Grade 5, that he met the love of his life, Joanne a lifelong bond that would shape his journey. Ross was the beloved husband of the late Joanne Cross Child and a devoted father to Tarrant (Celeste), Mike, and his late daughters, Tamara and Baby girl. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Nolan, Tyra (Dennis), Kaylei, Jaira (Quincey), Kinley, Jayvin, Jarrett, Dion, Austin (Jaycey), Lainee, and Jaxin, and a cherished great-grandfather to Hunter, Caleb, and Sophia. He often said that his grandchildren fulfilled his life, and he treasured every moment spent with them. He is also lovingly remembered by his siblings, Billy Boy Cross Child (Justine), Ted Cross Child, Adeline Sweetgrass, Nora Cross Child, Theresa Bear Chief, and Alice Cross Child; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Ross was predeceased by his parents, Annie Many Bears and William Cross Child Sr.; his wife, Joanne Cross Child; his daughters, Baby girl and Tamara Cross Child; and his siblings, Dominic Cross Child, Fred Cross Child, Earl Cross Child, Nadine Weiss, Ray Cross Child, Patrick Cross Child, and Madeline Cross Child. A respected Blood Tribe Elder, Ross was known as a friend to all people. He lived most of his life in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat, where he raised his children and helped raise his grandchildren. He was widely recognized for his connection to the World’s Tallest Teepee and was instrumental in the early stages of the Saamis Teepee project an enduring symbol of culture and pride in the community. Ross had a passion for rodeo in his younger years and participated in bull riding. He was loving, kind, and caring, always willing to share his wisdom. Above all, he loved teaching his children and grandchildren about the Word of God, grounding his family in faith and tradition. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses at Medicine Hat Regional Hospital and the Dialysis Unit for their compassionate care, especially Dr. Ahmon, Dr. Turenne, and Nurse Justine. Ross’s legacy of faith, strength, cultural pride, and unconditional love will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Thos wishing to pay their respects may do so on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel, #1 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, AB from 7:00 10:00 pm. The funeral service will be held at Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel on Friday, February 20, 2026, at 2:00 pm with Pastor Shane Hein officiating. The interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery If unable to attend, family and friends are welcome to participate via livestream by logging on to www.saamis.com and joining the live webcast on Ross’ memorial page at the above date and time. A virtual guest book is available on the livestream page for those participating remotely. Condolences may be sent to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Ross Cross Child. Funeral arrangements by
SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL
CHAPEL CREMATORIUM &
RECEPTION CENTRE,
“The Chapel in the Park
#1 Dunmore Road SE,
Medicine Hat, AB T1A 1Z5
(403)528-2599
www.saamis.com
inquiry@saamis.com
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CGR Holdings Ltd.