Apr 20, 2018
Steve Roberts, affectionately known as "Oral" passed away peacefully with family by his side after a courageous battle with cancer, on April 20, 2018 at the age of 70.
Survived by his loving wife, Connie, of 50 years; son Mike (Deb), daughter Jane (Shaun); granddaughters Mikaela (Buck) and Chloe (Leo); great-grandson Bodhi; sister Susan, brother Ron and extended family as well as many friends.
Steve grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he enjoyed playing football and baseball. He joined the US Navy at the age of 17, met Connie while stationed in Naples, Italy and fought in Viet Nam where he grew up quickly. After an honourable discharge from the Navy, Steve came to Port Alberni in 1972 looking for work. He was hired by M&B and worked at various jobs. He became a heavy machine grader operator where he remained until he retired. Steve thoroughly enjoyed being a logger, working on the grade and being part of the Safety Committee for most of his career.
He was active in the IWA and enjoyed all of his colleagues of whom he often spoke highly of. Steve enjoyed time with his family, especially his great-grandson Bodhi. He also enjoyed visiting Jane & Shaun in North Carolina where he was treated to VIP pit pass seats at many NASCAR races and enjoyed sharing those stories.
He coached many youth sport teams in the valley, played Slo-Pitch, helped form a 4x4 club as well as the Golden Oldies Car Club. Steve enjoyed camping with his family, fishing many of the local forest lakes, and he also loved the many dogs he had by his side over the years. He was always willing and ready to lend a hand and he was very proud of helping build a couple local fields in the valley. He was a man of integrity and he never judged anyone or anything. Steve will be missed by many.
A Gathering to reminisce and share stories will be held at 1:00 pm, Saturday, May 5, 2018 at the Steelworkers Hall, 4904 Montrose St, Port Alberni, BC.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Steve's memory may be sent to the SPCA, 4936 Broughton St, Port Alberni, BC., V9Y 7L9.
Stories and condolences may be offered to the family at www.chapelofmemories.ca.
