Frank Roberts

We are saddened to say that on Thursday, March 6th 2025, my family lost a loving husband, super hero dad, doting grandfather and Marine Corps Veteran. Frank Julius Roberts, 75, passed away at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka after complications from a fall at home on Sunday, February 16th. Frank is survived by his wife of 50 years, Elizabeth (Betty) Roberts, daughter, Theresa Roberts and granddaughter, Riley (Felix) Roberts.

My dad was always there for his family. The silent figure in the background, but the fierce defender when his family was threatened. He was also the gentle giant whenever one of us was hurting or simply needed to vent. I remember learning woodworking from him. He was always quick with a joke that I was usually the butt of and his reason for it was, as he put it, “one of the perks.” It is a perk as a parent to completely make fun of your kids. I understand that now, after becoming a parent myself. No, “Gentle Parenting” did not and will never exist in our home.

He continued to be my super hero when he chose to take on the role of being my daughter’s father figure. He was there for her through all her ups and downs. Through all the hard days. He was there even when he didn’t understand what was going on. He never judged her or made her feel worthless. They became so close that there were times they would take turns making fun of me. It would make her laugh when he would do something that made her feel like she was the favorite.

When I say “favorite,” it’s just a term of endearment. Anyone who knew my dad, knew he was a man of few words (unless he liked you) and carried his feelings close to his chest. Saying “I Love You” were not words that were said all the time. So, it became a big deal when he would say the words. Every now and then, he would intentionally say it to have Riley and I go back and forth. Hence, being titled the “favorite.” It was all in good fun. We all knew that he loved us. Before he left, he made sure to tell each of us that he did love us.

My parents’ love story was not love at first sight. He was a cook at IHOP and my mom was a waitress. She thought that he was arrogant and words I can’t say here. Until one day he won her over with cheese blintzes. When she decided to give him a chance, many said that it wouldn’t last. However, after 50 years of marriage, it’s safe to say they proved them wrong. Since my dad carried his feelings close to his chest, he had found the perfect match in my mom. She was not and is not, someone who needs validation. She knew him better than he knew himself and she knew that he loved her. That was all that she needed. Growing up, he was there for her, my half-sister, Tina and I.

My dad had 3 brothers from my grandpa, Edward Roberts (Marine) and grandma, Marie Gero. The family heritage was predominantly Polish and Native American. His brothers were: Stephen Roberts, Alan Roberts (Marine) and the baby William (Willie) Roberts (Marine). He also had siblings from grandpa’s previous marriage: Edward Roberts Jr., Bernard (Benny) Roberts and Phyliss Roberts.

As seen above, my dad comes from a family of dedicated Marines. It definitely made the house more interesting when my sister and I chose to go Army. My dad served this country as a Marine for a little over 4 years with a little over 1 year of Foreign/Sea Service. He was Honorably discharged at the rank of USMC Sgt. We do not know much about his time in service as he was even more quiet regarding that topic. All we know is that he was proud to be a Marine, even to the end.

As we do come to the end, my dad chose to leave this world his way and on his terms. He refused to pass in the ICU connected to machines. He waited until we had him in his private room at Stormont Vail in Topeka. While listening to Sinatra, “Fly Me to the Moon”, my dad had his last heartbeat and let out his final breath. He felt no pain and simply went to sleep.

He truly embodied his Marine Corps motto, “Semper Fidelis” (Always Faithful). He was and is that to us. We will miss his presence here but we know that he is and will always be with us. He will watch over us with our family and friends that have already passed.

We love and miss you, Frankie/Dad/Poppy!! From your girls, Betty Boop, Brat and Favorite!!