William Russell 'Russ' Roberts
Nov. 8, 1922 — May 2, 2011
MONTROSE — Lifelong resident and farmer, William Russell "Russ" Roberts, age 88, passed away early Monday evening, May 2, 2011, with his loving family by his side. Russ was born Nov. 8, 1922, in Montrose to Walter Scott and Pearlina (Marcum) Roberts. Russ spent his childhood in Montrose and attended school in Montrose as well.
On Dec. 31, 1944, Russ married the love of his life, Betty Jean Jacobsen, in Olathe, Colo.; they were blessed to celebrate 43 years of marriage. Betty preceded Russ in death on Feb. 5, 1988, in Grand Junction, Colo.
Russ farmed and ranched at Colona for over 50 years. He enjoyed the outdoors, picnicking, camping, fishing and hunting. During the colder months, he enjoyed Sunday dinners with his family. The 4th of July was an annual family reunion and horseshoe tournament that was greatly enjoyed by Russ every year. Russ enjoyed all the time he spent with his children and grandchildren. He so enjoyed watching them play and grow in his backyard.
Russ is survived by his sons: Donald Russell (Lois) Roberts of Meeker, Colo., David J. (Kathy) Roberts of Fruita, Colo., Daniel B. (Christy) Roberts of Golden, Colo., Roy Chris Roberts of Lakewood, Colo., Keith Lee (Dawn) Roberts of Montrose; one brother, Con (Alice) Roberts; and three sisters: Maynora Schmidt, Margaret (Les) Cook and Verlee Wilkes, all of Montrose. Russ is also survived by 13 precious grandchildren and 19 adored great-grandchildren. Russ is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty; one son, Steven William Roberts; as well as his brothers, Henry, Ern, Huck and Ray Roberts; and his sisters, Ethel Anders and Edith Russell.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 6, 2011, at the Crippin Funeral Home Chapel. A funeral service, in loving memory of Russ, will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 7, 2011, at the Montrose Christian Church, with Pastor Robert Pulliam officiating. Interment will take place following the service at Grand View Cemetery, west of Montrose.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in loving memory of Russ Roberts may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Colorado, P.O. Box 1804, Montrose, CO 81402. Condolences may also be sent to the family at www.crippinfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of Crippin Funeral Home, 802 E. Main St., Montrose, CO 81401 (970) 249-2121.
