RICHARD ROBERTS

SPENCERVILLE — Richard J. "Dick" Roberts, 85, of rural Spencerville, died at 11:45 PM Friday, April 15, 2016 at his residence following an extended illness.

He was born March 24, 1931 in Spencerville, a son of Enos and Edna Harter Roberts, who are deceased. On May 19, 1956 he married JoAnn Lindeman, who died May 11, 2009.

He is survived by 8 children; Debra (Robert) Kratzenberg of Plain City; Cheryl (fiancé James Welbaum) Roberts of Cridersville; Terri (Terry) England of Spencerville; Ed (Rhonda) Roberts of Waverly; Steven (Lois) Roberts of Peru, N.Y.; Judy (David) Hight of Celina and Tom and Greg Roberts, both of Spencerville; 21 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren; and one brother; James (Donelda) Roberts of Wapakonta.

Preceding him in death were six siblings; Ruth McDonough, Joline McGowen, Annie Rhoades, Max Roberts , Vince Roberts and infant Nellie Roberts.

Dick was member of the St. Patrick Parish and was a graduate of Spencerville High School. He served in the Korean War in the Air Force from 1950 thru 1955. He retired with 31 years service at the Lima Engine Plant of Ford Motor Company in assembly.

His true love was his family, fishing, hunting and gardening.

Graveside funeral services will be 11 AM Tuesday in the New Salem Cemetery, South of Monticello with Rev. Andrew J. Atkins and Dick's son-in-law; Brother Robert Kratzenberg officiating.

Friends may call from 9 until 10:45 AM Tuesday at the Thomas E. Bayliff Funeral Home in Spencerville, where military rites will be conducted by the Spencerville veterans.

Memorials may be made to the Spencerville Ambulance Service.

Condolences may be sent tbayliff @woh.rr.com.