Obituary

Ronald Roberts, 81, of Goodyear, Arizona, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2022. He was born September 19, 1940, in Powell River, British Columbia, Canada, to William Roberts and Maud Anderson Roberts.

Ron lived an amazing life full of laughs, adventures, and memories that will last a lifetime. Ron spent his childhood years in Powell River, British Columbia, Canada, and has visited his hometown almost every summer since. In 1957, Ron and his family permanently moved to Arizona.

Knowing Ron was unforgettable and unlike any other interpersonal interaction. He had a unique way of carrying himself, which spread life through any room he stepped into. He was larger than life and is known never to go unheard. Ron was very outgoing, and he found enjoyment in going out and making new friends wherever he went. His ability to connect with any single person makes him memorable in the eyes of many. He would often be found, and most thought of, telling stories, describing the countless memories that he was a part of. Ron will forever be known for his lively sense of humor. If you were in a room with Ron, you were sure to be shedding tears from laughing so hard. He was proud of his work in the construction industry. Ron helped build some of the Phoenix Zoo enclosures and even created a pool for James Pierce, the first actor to play Tarzan. But construction wasn’t his only work; he also built and sold mobile homes and parks, and owned the Raven Inn bar. Ron’s adventures took him across the world throughout his life, including memorable visits to Australia, Europe, Greece, Fiji, Mexico, and all over North America. A lover of motorcycles, boats, cars (especially Rolls Royce’s), and motorhomes, Ron raced on one of the first Harley Davidson flat tracks. Ron was an avid fisherman and was happiest when he was out boating on the water, specifically at Queen Charlotte Lodge. A couple of his favorite hobbies included racing boats and playing tennis at John Gardiner’s Tennis Ranch. Ron was also a collector of pretty much everything, from tools to trailers to European swords. He had a menagerie of pets that included birds, dogs, a goose, and rabbits (but definitely not snakes).

Ron’s proudest achievement was his family. He would take them on long trips to Canada or Washington in the summer and force them to listen to country music on the AM radio. His family remembers him fondly as their own “Archie Bunker” and “The Godfather.” His passing leaves a gaping hole in their hearts, but they are proud holders of his memories and stories. His presence will be missed in so many lives, but it will always be a blessing to have had the opportunity to share part of their lifetime with Ron. Ron’s memories will be cherished by his children: Tina Hayes, Dan Roberts, Heidi Johnson, Rebecca Roberts, Steven Roberts, and Melissa Mullard, his 12 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

There will be a Celebration of life on Sunday, June 12, 2022, at 4:00 pm to honor him at Dino’s Greek & Italian Grill at 1550 N Dysart Rd B-8, Goodyear, AZ 85395.