Jonathan Joseph Roberts

On August 3, 2003, Jonathan Joseph Roberts entered this world in Portland, OR, and was brought home by his parents the following day to meet his big sister, Lauren. He grew up as an active child, involved in every sport and extracurricular activity imaginable as he searched for his passion.

As he got older, his love of basketball became clear, and he excelled with his dad as his coach in AAU and later in school. Jonathan was known for his infectious laugh and smile. He was the child who would play with those who were ignored on the playground and always stood up for the underdog. His genetic predisposition to addiction and mental illness took hold of him in his early teen years, but he fought hard until the end to overcome these challenges. Despite his struggles, Jonathan graduated high school and later completed a manufacturing course. He worked in manufacturing with dreams of becoming an auto mechanic, recently touring Perry Technical Institute.

At 17, Jonathan met his soulmate, McKinlee, and together they brought their son, Zaccai (Cai), into the world on April 13, 2022. Above all, Jonathan wanted to be a good father to Cai and a loving partner to McKinlee. Cai was the joy of his life, and it was a gift to see him grow in fatherhood. Jonathan was a dedicated and attentive father with dreams of fishing and hiking with his son. He dreamed of building a good life and being a strong provider for his cherished family.

Jonathan loved his entire family deeply. He never left his parents without telling them that he loved and appreciated them. He adored his sister, Lauren, and looked up to her. He was grateful for the love and support of his grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and many extended family members and close friends who stood by him through all of his challenges.

Jonathan is survived by his parents, Brian and Darcie Roberts; his sister, Lauren Roberts; his son, Zaccai Roberts; his girlfriend, McKinlee Watson; McKinlee’s mother, April Watson; his maternal grandparents, Milton and Sheila Gunderson and Carol Case and numerous extended family members and close family friends who loved and accepted him.

He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Jack and Patricia Roberts; and his maternal grandfather, Jim Case.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Paul Cathedral of Yakima, WA on Friday, November 28 at 10 a.m. followed by a reception at Provisions Restaurant.

In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Rod’s House.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of Langevin El Paraiso Funeral Home.