William R. Roberts

78 after losing a courageous brain-tumor battle, passed away in his sleep in the early morning hours of February 12, 2012 surrounded by family and friends. Born and raised in Glendale, he attended school there followed by Arizona State College where he excelled in track and field events, setting several state and regional records in the high jump. At his ASC graduation he was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the Air Force and was honored to serve for four years, during which time, as a passenger serving as an early-warning radar site examiner, he survived a severe aircraft crash in the Arctic. After military discharge, he spent the remainder of his career in the physical education field. He was a beloved teacher with an Honorary Doctorate in Education. He coached for several years at various high schools, followed by over 30 years at Phoenix College. He loved athletics and the educational environment. He was inducted into the National Junior College Athletic Association Hall of Fame in 1998. He also loved singing and playing his guitar, being in the out-of-doors, and relaxing at his cabin with family and friends near Show Low, AZ. After retiring he always found time to help officiating track meets and various sporting events. He will be forever loved and missed by his family, friends and the students he so dearly loved. Rest in peace. He was preceded in death by his mother Janelle and father Roland. He is survived by his wife Lorene, his ex-wife Kathleen, children Paula (Paul) and Bill (Linda). Brothers Lowell (Nadine) and John (Joan), 7 grandchildren: Quinn, Keira, Kaelan, Lauren, Blake, Casadi, Dylan, step children: Becky and Brent (Shannon) and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews and nieces. A visitation will be held on February 16, 2012 from 5-8pm at West Resthaven Funeral Home 6450 W Northern Ave, Glendale AZ 85301 and a service will be the following day at West Resthaven funeral Home at 10am with interment to follow. In lieu of flowers the family request donations to be made at Hospice of the Valley 1510 E Flower St, Phoenix AZ 85014 or to the Special Olympics 1 800 700-8585 extention 1373.