Virginia "Gini" Katherine Roberts

Virginia Katherine Roberts (“Gini”), age 92, went home to the Lord on April 18, 2017, passing away in her sleep. Gini was born March 24, 1925 in Haxtun, Colorado to Fred and Clara Swisher and was raised on a large farm with her siblings, Don, Joan and Shirley. Her father was a Colorado State Senator and leading citizen of his community. She graduated from the Colorado Women’s College in the 1940’s, marrying Philip Roberts soon afterward. They moved to California, re-locating to Atascadero in 1956, where Phil worked at Atascadero State Hospital. Gini spent over 30 years with the State Alcoholic Beverage Control office in SLO and successfully pioneered the women’s cause of “equal pay for equal work” as a test case in the 1970’s.

Gini was known for her adventurous nature, always ready to go. She loved life and lived it well, surprising people by kayaking on Morro Bay in her 80’s and traveling throughout the United States and Europe. Gini was also active in her church, the Atascadero Gospel Chapel, which she faithfully attended for over 60 years.

Gini was preceded in death by her husband of more than 50 years along with her parents and sisters Joan and Shirley. She is survived by her brother Don Swisher and her daughters Linda Dillon and Roberta Fonzi, 7 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. A graveside service is scheduled for Monday, April 24th at 1:30 at Atascadero Cemetery. Reception to immediately follow the service at Atascadero Gospel Chapel.