Linn County News Published July 26, 2017 | July 25, 2017

Billie Eugene Roberts, 87, of Baldwin City, Kan., formerly of Pleasanton, Kan., died at his home with his family at his side on Tuesday, July 18, 2017. Bill was born Jan. 16, 1930, in Hillsdale, Kan., the only child of Damon Bennett and Gladys Irene (Frazee) Roberts. 

Bill grew up in Paola, Kan., where he attended schools and graduated from Paola High School. Bill was active in sports during his younger years participating in football, basketball and baseball. Bill was a hard worker and began his working career with a job as a ticket taker at the theatre in Paola and then later as a pin setter at the Paola bowling alley. 

Following high school, Bill joined the National Guard and served his country from 1944 through 1948.

Bill married Patty Jean Beach on Valentine’s Day 1951. They had three children and shared 46 years together before divorcing in 1997. 

Bill was a welder by trade working in Paola and then Kansas City, retiring in 1995. 

He enjoyed country music and western shows. He loved sitting on his front porch watching the birds and counting airplanes in the sky.

Survivors include two sons, Kenny Roberts and wife Brenda of Ottawa, Kan., and Randy Roberts and wife Brenda of Baldwin City; one daughter, Kathy Kuhn and husband David of Sandy, Utah; five grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Following Bill’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family service has been held. 

The family suggests contributions to Prairie Paws in care of Schneider Funeral Home, P.O. Box 304, La Cygne, KS 66040. Friends and family may leave online condolences at www.schneiderfunerals.com. Arrangements: Schneider Funeral Home, La Cygne Chapel.