David Thomas Roberts

No obituary can contain or convey the true essence, impact, and legacy of a person. True legacy is not measured by wealth or titles but by the depth of influence one has on others. It is the silent echo of your deeds and the inspiration that drives future generations to strive for greatness. No one embodied this fact like David Thomas Roberts.

David Thomas Roberts is how he is known to many, but to the rest of us, he was David, Dave, Dad, Pop, Papaw, friend, mentor, Boss, Tex, and many other names. On June 30, 2024, in Conroe, Texas, this force of nature passed away and left us to continue his legacy.

Born on January 14, 1959, in East St Louis, Missouri (although he’d prefer not to talk about that), Dave's journey through life was characterized by his fierce independence, deep love for his family, passion for all things Texas, willingness to mentor anyone who sincerely wanted to grow and learn, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Early Life and Education

From a young age, Dave embraced Texas as his own, referring to himself as a “naturalized Texan.” He immersed himself in our rich history and vibrant culture and often recounted his first visit to The Alamo as a child and its massive impact on his life. The force of will and the commitment to the principles of independence and liberty exhibited by the Alamo defenders left an indelible mark on his spirit and character.

He attended Aldine High School in Houston, TX, graduating with the Class of 1977 and forging bonds of friendship that endure to this day. His journey continued at the University of Texas, where the Longhorn spirit ignited his entrepreneurial drive and set him on a path to make a lasting impact.

Personal Life

On February 23, 1984, Dave married the love of his life, Rose Marquez, in Always and Forever Wedding Chapel, and together, they built a loving and dynamic family. He was a devoted father to his loving children and 8 grandchildren. He was an entrepreneur, longhorn rancher, devout animal lover, Texas history buff, sports enthusiast (especially racquet sports), and coach, and he had a highly competitive spirit in every way.

Career and Achievements

Dave's entrepreneurial journey was nothing short of extraordinary. From humble beginnings, he built a legacy of innovation and success. Over the years, Dave founded several thriving businesses, including Teligistics, Defiance Press and Publishing, ProcureLogix, and Comanche Rose Ranch. Each venture reflected his unique blend of boldness, creativity, and relentless drive.

Dave was a self-made man, a true "Renegade Capitalist," who carved his own path with an unconventional and brash business philosophy. His fearless approach led to groundbreaking changes in every industry he touched. He held numerous patents for innovative processes that revolutionized these sectors, proving that thinking outside the box was his forte.

A passionate advocate for Free Enterprise, Dave believed in the power of startups and small businesses. He championed them as the true backbone of America’s economy, always ready to lend his expertise and support to budding entrepreneurs. Dave’s ability to disrupt industries positively and drive economic growth made him a respected and influential figure in the business world.

Seeing his deeply held principles under assault, especially freedom of speech, Dave founded Defiance Press & Publishing to give conservative and liberty-loving authors a platform to have their voices heard and to actively combat censorship.

Dave stood at the nexus of Texas values, Texas culture, politics, and business. While those all converged in his life, he actively worked to champion our history, culture, and values as he knew them. He was unapologetic and unafraid, willing to speak truth to power and put actions behind those words. Dave was motivated not solely by his love of Texas but by his desire to leave his children, grandchildren, and future generations with a legacy of freedom, independence, and opportunity. He wanted them to live in Texas as it should be and was willing to make whatever sacrifices necessary to make that a reality.

His love for Texas was a central theme in his life. Whether it was the construction of the 1836 Dancehall and Saloon in his own backyard or establishing Comanche Rose Ranch to fulfill his long-time dream of raising Longhorn cattle, Dave expressed his love for his home in tangible ways. Dave was also a prolific author, writing six books: "Hunt It Down, Kill It, Drag It Home," "The Death of Liberty," "Purge on the Potomac," "A State of Treason," "Unemployable," and "Patriots of Treason."

Legacy and Remembrance

Dave's core values and beliefs were the foundation of his legacy, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives. Everyone who knows him has a “Dave story,” and his character and personality shine through in all of them. Dave's influence will continue to inspire future generations to strive for greatness. His legacy is marked by his entrepreneurial spirit, love for Texas, and the profound impact he had on those around him. He will be remembered as a man who cut his own path, leaving a large boot print in the hearts of us all.

He is survived by his loving children: Tiffany Roberts and Joe, Tanya Shelander and Tara, Travis Roberts and Brittany and Tanner Roberts and Amanda; his 8 grandchildren— Vivi Dalton, Braeden Shelander, Aliza Roberts, Isabel Shelander, Thomason Roberts, Lily Roberts, Travis Roberts Jr., and Amelia Roberts—who affectionately called him "Papaw," were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

Dave's extended family included, his sister, Debbie Biehl and husband, Gary; Donnie Roberts and wife, Lisa Lambert and husband, Karla Miller and husband, nieces and nephews, and many close friends who played significant roles in his life.

He was predeceased by his grandparents Garnetta and Thomas Nicholson; parents Doris and Bob Roberts; and granddaughter Adelyn Shelander.

Funeral and Memorial Information

A public visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 16th from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Woodlands Methodist Church at 2200 Lake Woodland Drive, in The Woodlands, Texas. The funeral service celebrating Dave’s life will be held on Wednesday, July 17th, at 11:00 am, also at Woodlands Methodist Church. Pallbearers will include Travis Roberts, Tanner Roberts, Joe Byrd, Randy Councill, Thom Reeder, Raymond Turnbow, Jeff Morris, and Daniel Miller. Honorary pallbearers will be Jim Dalton, Gary Biehl, Leo Perez, Bart Barrow, Nick Crocker, and Mark Pruitt.

David Thomas Roberts will be deeply missed, but his legacy of independence, love for Texas, entrepreneurial spirit, and profound impact on those around him will live on forever.