Obituary of Richard Ervin Roberts Jr.

Richard “Rick” Ervin Roberts Jr. was born on September 6, 1958, in Monroe, Michigan. He was one of three children and the only son born to Richard Ervin and Mary (Harmon) Roberts. Rick attended Monroe Public Schools.

For many years, Rick was employed as a heavy equipment operator.  He was a proud member of the Operator Engineers Union Local 324 retiring in 2013.  On September 12, 2006, he wed the former Patricia Besedich.

As a young boy, Rick found a deep appreciation for the great outdoors. He often chopped wood and walked through the woods to escape his troubles and find peace.   A dog lover, Rick was often accompanied by his canine companions.   He continued to have a pup by his side throughout his life.   Rick learned to ride dirt bikes as a child on the trail next to his family home.   Even as an adult he continued to enjoy the thrill of heading to Michigan’s northern peninsula to ride off trail.   Rick also loved to hit the open road on his motorcycle.  

A “jack of all trades”, he singlehandedly built his first family home.   Rick also graciously assisted in remodeling two other homes.  

Rick was a devout Christian, receiving his spiritual nourishment, until his declining health prevented it, through regular attendance at the North Monroe Street Church of God.   He was a prayer warrior and having a close relationship with God, he knew that despite his inability to physically attend church he found God’s comforting embrace everywhere in the world around him.   He often said that “you could turn over a rock and find God”.  

Rick was deeply compassionate, and always willing to give of himself.   Once, Rick stopped to talk with a man who was contemplating taking his own life.   Through conversation, the man changed his mind and accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior.

Richard Ervin Roberts Jr., age 64, of LaSalle, Michigan, passed away peacefully at Advanced Specialty Hospitals of Toledo, Ohio on Sunday; January 29, 2023. His passing was preceded by his parents and two brothers-in-law: Gene Heitzenrater and Tom Besedich.

To cherish his memory he leaves his loving wife of sixteen years: Patricia Roberts; a son: Richard Roberts III; and two sisters: Donna Heitzenrater and Shirley Roberts.

Friends may gather on Thursday; February 2, 2023, from 2:00pm until 8:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway, Monroe, Michigan 48161 (734) 241-7070.   He will lie in state from 12:00pm until 1:00pm on Friday; February 3, 2023, at North Monroe Street Church of God, 2393 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162.   A Worship Service Celebrating His Life will take place at 1:00pm also at the church followed by procession to Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle.

Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.