The Cross Check makes a fine touring bike but I'm thinking you need a longer top tube than than the standard square dimensions where the seat tube and top tube are roughly the same.

You might think about the Specialized Globe Haul 1. The large size has a 58cm top tube with a 30.5" standover height. I'd look at a rear wheel with 14g. spokes and see if you can get a different crankset or a larger chainring to replace the chainring guard. Handlebars could be changed around to your preferences. Doubt you could get 40mm tires in there but it's worth trying out.