Charles D. Roberts, Jr.

General Roberts was born in Kansas City, Missouri on March 28th, 1930. He received his Bachelor’s degree from The University of Missouri-Columbia where he participated in the NROTC program and was a member of Kappa Alpha Fraternity.

He earned his MBA while in the military from The George Washington University, District of Columbia. He was commissioned in the Marine Corps in 1951 and retired from active duty in 1979 with the rank of Brigadier General.

During his military career he served in combat in Korea and Vietnam. He taught at the U.S. Naval Academy and completed his career as the commander of the Marine Corps Logistics Supply Base in Barstow, CA. His military honors included the Silver Star, the Legion of Merit with a gold star, The Purple Heart (three times), the Harry S. Truman Silver Veteran’s Award and numerous other citations.

Although he was a highly decorated veteran, Chuck, as he preferred to be called, was a pragmatic, kind, ethical and unassuming hero. He was truly an officer and a gentleman whose quiet heroism extended well beyond the battlefield. He served his community as the Director of the Kansas City, KS Port Authority, helped establish the Kansas City Vietnam War Memorial, was a member of the Military Order of the World Wars, VFW, the Salvation Army and was an elder and treasurer of Country Club Christian Church.

Despite Chuck’s wish to not have a flowery obituary, his family chose not to follow his orders. We simply could not help ourselves since he was so loved and respected.

Chuck was preceded in death by his first wife, Nancy Lou Roberts; his parents, Brigadier General Charles D. Roberts and Gladys Elizabeth Roberts; a son, Charles D. Roberts, III.

Survivors include his wife, Janet Roberts of Leawood, KS daughters: Danae Roberts of Kansas City, Kansas and Nell (David) McCaslin of Easton, CT; one step-daughter, Susan Preston of Taos, NM; a step-son, David Preston of San Dieto, CA; a sister, Roberta Sawyer; son-in law, Jere Hanney; three grandchildren: Jack (Katie) Hanney, Rachel and Robert McCaslin; and one great-grandchild, Benjamin Hanney.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Country Club Christian Church, The Salvation Army Bellefontaine Corps or Hospice House.