Rev. Frederick John Roberts

The Reverend Frederick John Roberts

"Safe in the arms of Jesus"

After a life of service to God and man, Rev. Fred Roberts willingly left this life on Sept. 27th, 2010.

He will be sorely missed but lovingly remembered for his unfailing dedication to his family by Irene, his wife of 63 years, by his children and their spouses, Cate and Peter, Laurie and Corinne, Jamie and Karen, Rose and Karl and his grandchildren Jordan, Lisa, Scott, Kristen, Jacob, Spencer, Ross, Jessica, Steve, Liz, Sara and by many more surviving family members including his brother Arthur and sister- in laws Ruth, Hazel, Eleanor and Agnes. He is predeceased by his brothers George and Steve.

On March 26,1920 Fred was born in Winnipeg to Dorothy and Herbert Roberts – kind, loving, self-educated English folk who raised a family instilled with the Christian-socialist values of equality, hard work and joy. He grew up in a community made rich by close family, good neighbours and the Church.

Always a scholar, he excelled in school (he never forgot a teacher) and graduated with degrees (B.A., B.D., M.Div.) from United College, University of Manitoba. From age 8 he knew he would be a minister. An ordained minister for 66 years, Rev. Fred served the United Church of Canada in many ways and places.

He began summer Mission Field duties at the age of 16. He ministered to Atlantic Ave, Winnipeg, Cyprus River, at St. Andrew's in Schreiber, at Knox in Durham, at Victoria Ave. in Chatham, First United in Galt, and Zion in Kitchener, where he was Minister Emeritus. He had a reputation for being a biblical scholar, a social activist, a man of extremely high principles, a problem-solver, a powerful orator and a man who unconditionally accepted everyone.

Rev. Fred was a proud Canadian. During the War he was a Padre in the Reserve. He continued his connections with the Militia as a member of the Essex-Kent Scottish, the Highland Light Infantry and the Highland Fusiliers. For 22 years he worked with teenagers at Ipperwash Summer Cadet Camp. He resigned active militia duties as a Major (C.D.) with the Highland Fusiliers of Canada in 1985.

Rev. Fred retired and spent many healthy years with Irene, traveling, enjoying the fellowship of family and community. He was always thankful for what others did – and told them. He will be remembered as a true gentleman who treated all with kindness and respect and for the unwavering support and advice and comfort he gave. No one can forget his keen sense of humour, his laughter, the smile in his eyes and the songs that burst from his heart.

Rev. Fred lived a good, long life. For the past year and a half he has relied on the concern and service given by those at St. Joseph's Villa, especially on Rose Garden. He and the family appreciated and warmly thank all of you who extended your gentle care.

On Wednesday, October 6, a "Celebration of Rev. Roberts' Life" will take place at Ratz- Bechtel Funeral Home, 621 King St. West, in Kitchener. Rev. Fred retired from Zion and has remained as their Minister Emeritus. Athough Irene will not be able to be there due to her health, there will be a Visitation with the family from 12 -2 pm, followed by the service in the funeral home chapel at 2:00 pm. Friends are invited to join the family at the Ratz-Bechtel Family Centre for a time of fellowship and refreshments following the service. We invite you to attend if you can because we know over the years that you have touched Rev. Fred's life – directly or through his family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Rev. Roberts' memory may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, The Wesley Urban Ministry or a charity of your choice.