Max Roberts

Max D. Roberts died peacefully, Friday, November 7, 2014 at Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice in Wichita, KS. with the family he loved surrounding him.  Max was born September 7, 1944 in Newton, Kansas to Eugene C. and Dorothy (Lyle) Roberts. He was a proud member of the of Newton High School class of 1963.  Following graduation, Max served in the U.S. Army in Germany.  On April 20, 1968 he married Rosemary Blair at Salem United Methodist Church in Newton, where he was a member of the Crusaders Sunday School class.  He retired as a machinist from Case IH in Wichita.  Max was a supporter of student athletes at all levels of competition.  He coached his daughter’s softball and basketball teams.  Max was an umpire for youth and adult softball.  He enjoyed watching students practice and play sports in Newton and the surrounding areas.  He also was a loyal and vocal fan of Nebraska Huskers football and WSU Shocker basketball and baseball.   

He enjoyed delivering meals on wheels and spending time with friends at Druber’s Donut Shop.  He also liked fishing, camping, and bargain hunting at garage sales.  Max’s greatest joy was his family, and he never missed sharing a special game or performance with his beloved grandkids.  Max was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Donna Burks.  Survivors include his wife Rose, a sister, Patty Briar of Newton, and three brothers:  Mike and Jacky of Newton, and Jimmy of Wichita.  He was blessed with two daughters: Keri (Rex) Boley of Salina, and Brandy (Kyle) Beer of Newton.  Five cherished grandchildren include Alexa Jarrell, Colby Beer, Raef Boley, Makenzie Boley, and Kyler Boley.  Other survivors include many special nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. 

Visitation with the family will be 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday evening at Petersen Funeral Home. Funeral service will be 2 p.m. Friday November 14, 2014 at Salem United Methodist Church in Newton, KS with Pastor Nancy Crowl presiding.  Burial will be in the Restlawn Gardens of Memory Cemetery in rural Newton, KS.  In honor of Max’s sports enthusiasm, his family requests that you dress casually in your favorite sportswear for the services.   

Memorials suggested to Newton High School Athletics and The Newton Wrestling Club in care of Petersen Funeral Home.