Max Owen Roberts

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Max Owen Roberts, 76, a lifelong Barton County resident whose steady presence shaped generations of family, friends, and young athletes, passed away peacefully at his home on February 17, 2026, in Ellinwood, Kansas.

He was born November 20, 1949, in Great Bend, to Theron James Roberts, Sr. and Georgia (Grizzle) Roberts. A proud member of the Great Bend High School Class of 1967, Max carried his small-town roots with him throughout his life. In 1968, he began serving his country during the Vietnam Era in the United States Army Reserves, where he served as a drill sergeant - a role that reflected the discipline, leadership, and firmness that would define much of his life.

Max married Dee (Schremmer), and together they were blessed with two sons. Later in life, he married Kathy Ann Kasselman on June 4, 1988, in Ellinwood. Their 37 years together were marked by partnership, devotion, and the joy of welcoming a daughter into their family. Throughout his life, Max held various jobs and pursued business ventures in and around Barton County, always working hard, always building, and always providing.

Max believed in investing in people. He volunteered with Big Brothers/Big Sisters, mentored youth, and gave countless hours to coaching baseball, wrestling, football, basketball, and softball. Whether on the field, in the stands, or serving through the Optimist Club, Cub Scouts, church activities, he showed up. He did not simply attend community life - he participated in building it. He was a tried-and-true baseball fan, but he was an even bigger fan of his children and grandchildren. He offered guidance, encouragement, and sometimes firm instruction. His proudest title was not coach or volunteer, but "Papa Max."

Max will be remembered as a man of strong convictions, steady faith, deep loyalty, and unwavering love for his family and community. He led with firmness, cared with consistency, and stood as a constant source of strength for those who knew him best.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 37 years, Kathy Ann Roberts; two sons, Kyle Roberts and wife Chassity of Hoisington, and Cory Roberts and wife Angela of Chicago, Illinois; daughter, Casey Batchman and husband Michael of Ellinwood; sister, Georgiana Yasko of Winter Springs, Florida; grandchildren, Brett Roberts, A.J. Roberts (Emma), Canyon Roberts, Sophie Roberts, Ava Roberts, and Natalee Batchman; great-granddaughter, Marley Roberts; brother-in-law, Larry Gustin of Wichita; and sister-in-law, Sue Roberts of Ellinwood. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Jerry Roberts and T.J. Roberts, Jr.; sister, Marsha Gustin; and brother-in-law, Mickey Yasko.

Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Monday, February 23, 2026, at Ellinwood Community Church with Pastor Troy Miller and Pastor Sam Ryan presiding. Burial will follow at Lakin-Comanche Cemetery, Ellinwood, with military honors conducted by the Ft. Riley Honor Guard. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Sunday, February 22, 2026, with family receiving guests from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., at Bryant Funeral Home. Memorials have been designated to the Max Roberts Memorial Fund in care of Bryant Funeral Home, 1425 Patton Road, Great Bend, KS 67530.