Howard Michael Roberts, 87, of Catonsville, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 5, 2026. Born in Baltimore, MD, he was the cherished son of the late Margaret (née Maguire) and Mark Roberts. He was preceded in death by his beloved sister Jeanne Chalk (née Roberts).
Howard grew up in the Baltimore area and graduated from Calvert Hall College High School. Known for his friendly nature and love for a good conversation, he was a naturally social person who truly enjoyed connecting with friends and strangers alike. These traits served him well in a career in sales and security. He spent the final 22 years of his professional life at the International Organization of Masters, Mates, & Pilots, until his retirement at the age of 83. As a true Baltimore native, he enjoyed watching the Orioles, the Colts, and the Ravens, often regaling others of the time he helped tear down the goal posts at “The Greatest Game Ever Played” – the 1958 NFL championship game between the Baltimore Colts and the NY giants at Yankee Stadium.
Howard was the beloved husband of Janis Roberts (née Fitz-Roy) with whom he shared 58 years of marriage. He was the devoted father of Heather Roberts Fox (Paul), Michael Fitz-Roy Roberts, and Nicholas Lee Zoll (Joy). He was the dear stepbrother of Donald Haynes (Jacqueline), and the proud, loving grandfather of Emily and Andrew Fox. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM and/or 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Sterling-Ashton-Schwab-Witzke Funeral Home of Catonsville, Inc. located at 1630 Edmondson Avenue, Catonsville, MD 21228.
A funeral service celebrating Howard's life will be held at the same location on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Following the service, mourners are warmly invited to join the family for lunch to share memories and fellowship. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that charitable donations be made in Howard's name to the Alzheimer's Association.
