MIDDLETON, Idaho — Leonard Cross is a Marine Corps veteran who served in Vietnam. The 76-year-old spent more than a decade driving a bus for the Middleton School District. Before that, Cross also spent time working as a farmer and for Darigold and Sorrento.
Just over a year ago, Cross was diagnosed with base of the tongue cancer, which forced him into isolation during the coronavirus pandemic.
His wife Darlene wanted to do something special for him. Along with their five daughters, 15 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren, she organized a surprise social distancing parade to show their love for Leonard.
"He's going to be very overwhelmed. It's just going to be unbelievable," said Darlene, who has been married to him for 44 years. "I just want to get him out here, because I know it is going to be a tear-jerker."
Around 50 cars passed by the Cross's home, with drivers honking their horns, shooting confetti and shouting how much they love him.
The parade was led by the Idaho State Police and Nampa Police. A bus from the Middleton School District also made an appearance.
Cross sat in his chair and waved to his friends and family with a smile on his face as he thanked the people who drove by his home.
"We want to thank everybody," said Darlene.
