Gerald "Jerry" McRoberts

1940 - 2026

Gerald "Jerry" McRoberts

February 15, 1940 - January 4, 2026

Jerry McRoberts, age 85, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 4, 2026 in Rice Lake, Wisconsin.

Jerry was born on February 15, 1940, in Morris, Minnesota, to Lewis McRoberts and Amelia (Hayes) McRoberts, both of whom preceded him in death. He grew up with strong Midwestern values that guided his life, faith, and service to others.

He attended St. Thomas College in St. Paul, Minnesota, and in 1970 made Wisconsin his home, where he built a life rooted in family, community, and dedication. Jerry spent 32 years working as a salesman for Nabisco, a career marked by reliability, professionalism, and lasting relationships.

A man of deep faith and civic commitment, Jerry was a member of the Knights of Columbus and served his community in countless ways. After retiring, he volunteered at the Marshfield Clinic, where he worked with dialysis patients, offering compassion and steady support. He also served on the Barron County Board for 18 years and was an active member of the St. Joseph Church Board, including his well-known tradition of selling Christmas trees to raise funds for the parish school.

Jerry found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved golfing and was proud to be part of a team, "enjoyed responsible trips" to the casino with friends, followed car racing closely, and attended the Daytona 500 several times. He rarely missed reading the newspaper and staying informed about the world around him.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Carol (Sprouls) McRoberts; his children, Todd McRoberts of Rice Lake, Wisconsin, Tim McRoberts of Rice Lake, Wisconsin, and Tammy (McRoberts) and Dave Olson of Naples, Florida; his granddaughter, Brittani (Olson) and Bryan Sentiere; and his great-grandson, Callum Sentiere. He is also survived by his sister, Joanne Schumack, and many nieces, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Jerry will be remembered for his quiet generosity, strong work ethic, dedication to service, and the steady presence he brought to his family and community. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11AM Saturday, January 10, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rice Lake, WI, Father Phil Juza officiating, with interment in the Nora Cemetery in Rice Lake. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the service at the church. Appleyard's Home for Funerals in Rice Lake, WI is assisting and serving the family with the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials would be appreciated to The Parkinson's Foundation.