×

Clarence J. Roberts

FLAT ROCK — Clarence J. Roberts, 83, formerly of Flat Rock, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2018, at the Pinecrest Medical Care Facility in Powers.

Clarence was born in Escanaba on March 15, 1935, son of Donald and Augusta (Rubens) Roberts. He was a lifelong resident of Flat Rock.

At age 16, he went to work for C&NW Railroad to help assist with family expenses.

In 1957, Clarence enlisted in the Air Force, until his honorable discharge in 1961. He was awarded a Good Conduct Medal.

Following his return from the military, he then went to work for Harnischfeger as a welder until the closure. He then did carpentry work and odd jobs at Holy Family Church until working for E&LS Railroad, retiring in 1997.

On May 29, 1965, Clarence married Linda Lou Smith at Holy Family Church in Flat Rock. They shared 53 years of marriage and together raised their three children.

He was a member of Holy Family Church.

Clarence was an outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, sitting around a bonfire with family and friends and absolutely loved animals. He enjoyed helping family, friends or even strangers with whatever help they needed. He was known to be able to fix anything.

Among survivors are his wife, Linda of Escanaba; children, Barbie (Michael) Clairmont of Flat Rock, Joelle Roberts of Gladstone and Jamie (Julie) Roberts of Norway; grandchildren, Robbie Young, Gregory Young, Devin Carley and Katlyn Roberts; great-grandchildren, Kyrsten Young and Beau Carley; siblings, Lorrain (Eugene) Tourangeau of Flat Rock, Don (Carol) Roberts of Milwaukee, and Mary Ann (John) Sauve of Escanaba; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, James and Stanley.

Private graveside services will be held at the convenience of the family.

A celebration of Clarence’s life will take place on Saturday, Sept. 15, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the White Birch in Flat Rock.

Memorials in Clarence’s name may be directed to the Delta Animal Shelter, 6975, County 426 M.5 Road, Escanaba, MI 49829.

A message of condolence may be directed to the family by visiting crawfordfuneralhomes.net. The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the Roberts family.