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Barry Roberts Obituary
Barry Roberts
July 5, 2020
CEDAR RAPIDS-Barry Roberts, 64, passed away peacefully at his home Sunday, July 5, 2020 in Cedar Rapids, IA. Barry was larger than life. He could make any room erupt with laughter and had the distinct ability to turn strangers into friends. His favorite people called him Papa, Dad, Uncle Bare Head, Scary Barry, Neanderthal, and "Sir." He was the devoted husband to a loving wife of 44 years, and the proudest Dad you could find. He was loved by all and became infamous to some. He was known for his endless (and repeated) stories and being the keeper of all sports brackets. He wouldn't hesitate to give big or small. His life was completed by the birth of his grandkids, the Cubs winning the World Series, and the daily lineup of shows on MeTV. We will miss him more than words but his legacy will live on. He will be remembered with a passion because "legends never die."
He is survived by wife, Sue Besemer-Roberts, children, Whitney (Jonathan Staats) of Madison, WI, Meghan (Drew) Hoppeworth of Marion, IA and Glynn (Samantha Irwin) of Cedar Rapids, IA; brothers, Bill (Brenda) Roberts of Geneso, IL, John (Lyn) Roberts of Princeton, IL, Joe (Suwann) Roberts of Port Byron, IL and Steve Roberts of Oakland, CA; sisters, Judy (Bob) Roberts- Sowers of Downers Grove, IL and Becky Keehn of San Luis Obipso; grandchildren, Charlotte, Henry and Hazel Hoppenworth of Marion, IA; dog Aubrey; 39 beloved and special nieces and nephews, and role model Ellen DeGeneres. He was preceded in death by his parents, Betty and Bill Roberts; brothers, Jim and Dave Roberts; sister, Kathy McIntyre; his golf game; and Ben Matlock. A memorial open house will be held from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 11, at Parlor City Pub & Eatery, 1125 Third St. SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401. Masks are encouraged. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Toys4Tots, Southern Poverty Law Center or the American Heart Association.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Barry Roberts
Alex Garner
November 8, 2021
Barry,
You we're my mentor. You schooled me like no other. I'll always love you. I felt your absence last year but never looked into it. But, I knew. I love you, bro.
Matt Schlicht
July 30, 2020
I just learned of his passing. I work at Collins and always enjoyed Barry.
Debbie McFaddin
July 11, 2020
We on Harsens Island have so many wonderful memories of the Roberts & Besemer family visits. Our Kenny was always drawn to Barry because Barry could make him laugh, & they would share very different & interesting conversations. Kenny still has the photo of himself in the Gumby costume with Barry laughing along! Great fun... It was Barry who taught me how to do sudoku puzzles, which I still enjoy. I was always amazed at how Barry would daily solve all the puzzles in the newspaper with hardly any effort. We have so many special memories.
Our hearts are pouring out love to Barrys whole family & sending comforting prayers to all.
Debbie, John, & Kenny McFaddin
Ed Whitney
July 10, 2020
Barry was one of the nicest, funniest guys I ever met. He'll truly be missed.
American Heart Association
July 9, 2020
May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.
Jane Dalton
July 9, 2020
Dear Sue, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved husband Barry. I know he will be missed by you, your children and extended family. Sending you comfort and compassion.
Plumber Dave
July 9, 2020
Sorry to read about Barry. His obit was right on! I just knew him from the Break Room. He was always smiling, joking and showing off those big teeth. We've all lost one of the great ones, with Barry gone...
Sherri Tank Apisa
July 9, 2020
I'm deeply sorry for your loss. I have so many great and funny memories of Barry! I can't remember him without his big smile. Barry was the nicest guy ever!
Rest in Peace sweet Barry!
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