Jacob "Jake" Roberts

Oskaloosa. Jacob W. "Jake" Roberts, a beacon of kindness and wisdom, passed away at the age of 84 on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at the MHP Hospice Serenity House in Oskaloosa, Iowa. Born on August 24, 1940, in Albia, Iowa, Jake was the cherished son of Charles H. and Wilma Warner Roberts. His journey through life was marked by his thoughtful nature and unwavering commitment to his family and community.
After graduating from Tipton High School in 1958, Jake extended his education at the University of Iowa, where he laid the foundation for his successful career. On August 30, 1959, he married the love of his life, Judy Johnston, in Tipton, Iowa. Together, they were blessed with three sons: John, Christopher, and Michael, around whom their world joyfully revolved.
Jake's early career was diverse, including roles such as a lawn mower, milk delivery man, car parts deliverer, meat cutter at Bud's Super Value, and stroller salesman. His work ethic and dedication led him to take a position at A.C. Nielson Market Research in Des Moines. In 1974, he and his family settled in Oskaloosa, where he made a lasting impact as the Controller at Mahaska Bottling. His professional journey continued as he became the Business Manager and Board Secretary for the Oskaloosa Community School District in 1988, where he played a pivotal role in numerous improvements and building projects until his retirement in 2007. Even in retirement, Jake continued to share his expertise, consulting for the Fremont Community School District during a period of transition.
Jake's involvement with his church and community was a testament to his generous spirit. He was a devout member of the Methodist Church and later Trinity Church in Oskaloosa. He served as the Chairman of the finance committee at the Central United Methodist Church and contributed his time and talents to Trees Forever, Habitat for Humanity, and Kiwanis. His volunteer work with MCRF, driving a tram on trail tours, showcased his love for his community and its people.
Known for his love of walks, tennis, sports, crossword puzzles, and the melodies of the 50s and 60s, Jake found joy in life's simple pleasures. But above all, his family was his pride and joy. A devoted husband to Judy for over 65 years, a loving and caring father to his sons, and an adoring grandfather and great-grandfather, Jake's legacy is one of love and devotion.
Jake leaves behind a loving family: his wife, Judy Roberts of Oskaloosa; his sons and their wives, John and Patrice Roberts of Overland Park, Kansas, Christopher and Michelle Roberts of Johnston, and Michael and Angie Roberts of Lake St. Louis, Missouri; his eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy into his life; his brother, Tim (Deb) Roberts of Walford, Iowa; his sister, Susan Wilson of Eldridge, Iowa; his sister-in-law Susan Bartholomew (Dick) of Solon, Iowa and numerous nieces and nephews. Tammie Fortney is and always will be a close loved one whose help in care giving every day can never be repaid enough. Jake was preceded in death by his parents and his mother and father-in-law, Joe and Clara Johnston.
In a testimony to Jake's legacy, Jake and Judy were and are always surrounded by a large group of caregivers, from loved ones to close family friends to neighbors...of which we cannot thank enough. To the Moore Family, the Wisbrock Family, the Horn Family, Artie Clark, Ken Howard, Ruth Sherlock, the Malloy Family, the Coen Family, the Tuesday Coffee Club, we cannot express enough gratitude. Sincere apologies go to whomever we missed. To Mary Lynch, Corrie Orndoff, Adam Lobberecht, Shelly Lobberecht, thank you so much for all the wonderful care and love.
A memorial service to celebrate Jake's life will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at the Bates Funeral Chapel in Oskaloosa. Honoring Jake's wishes, his body has been cremated, and the burial of the urn will take place at Forest Cemetery at a later date. Friends and family are invited to visit and share memories on Saturday, from 11 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral chapel. Memorials may be made to the MHP Hospice Serenity House or Trinity Church in Oskaloosa.