Donald Eugene Roberts

Don passed away suddenly in the hospital on September 7, 2017 after a brief illness. He took his final nap and awoke in heaven. He was born on April 6, 1933 on a farm in Eddyville, Iowa. He was the middle of 5 children. He served 4 years in the Navy during the Korean War as a Machinist Mate. In 1956 he settled in Southern California and worked for the Gravely Tractor Co. He met Midge, the love of his life, at a 4th of July picnic in Pasadena. They were married in March of 1958 and had 3 children. The family moved to Spokane in 1968, where he was employed by Montgomery Ward in the Automotive Center, until he retired.

Don loved fishing, camping, gardening, and riding his Honda Gold Wing with his wife. His hobby for the last 20 years was restoring old garden tractors, which he proudly displayed at the Spokane Interstate Fair every year. He was a longtime member of Hillyard Baptist Church, a charter member of the Christian Motorcycle Assoc. in Spokane, and a member of Inland Empire Steam and Gas Buffs (antique tractor club). He was an active member of the Hillyard Senior Center and recently received the Lifetime Service Award for his volunteer work there.

Donald is survived by his wife of 59 years, Madelyn “Midge;” daughters: Susan Sabatino and Diane Cromer (David); and son: James Roberts. He is also survived by 4 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, 1 brother and 2 sisters. He is preceded in death by his parents and 1 brother.

A Memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 23, at 1PM at Hillyard Baptist Church, 2121 E. Wabash, Spokane, reception immediately following.