Don Roberts

Donald "Don" Ray Roberts, 87, of Cedar Falls, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2026, at Pinnacle Specialty Care in Cedar Falls. Don was born on April 23, 1938, in West Williamsburg, Iowa, to Raymond and Mary (Taylor) Roberts. From an early age, he developed the strong work ethic and quiet determination that would guide him throughout his life. In 1958, Don married Elaine Alice Simmons, and together they raised five children. He later married Donna Faye (Schafbuch) Roberts in 1983. In 1994, he married Karen Horonzy. Don devoted 33 years to his career as a pipefitter and scheduler, taking pride in honest, steady work. In his younger years, he volunteered with the Cedar River Patrol. He believed in showing up, doing the job right, and teaching his children by example. Through him, they learned the value of hard work, patience, and taking pride in what they built with their own hands. He was a master gardener, a gifted handyman, and a quiet teacher in everyday life. Many mornings and evenings found him tending to his garden or caring for his beloved chickens. He had a deep love for animals, especially his loyal dog Max, who rarely left his side. Don also loved to travel and was especially fond of Colorado, a place he held dear since he first began visiting there with his parents as a child. Don was preceded in death by his father, Raymond Roberts; his mother, Mary Roberts; his second wife, Donna Faye Roberts; and his brother, Kenneth Roberts. He is survived by his wife, Karen, of Cedar Falls; his children: Scott (Evelyn) Alan Roberts of Keosauqua, IA; Barry (Brenda) Ray Roberts of Dysart, IA; Christopher (Melanie) Jon Roberts of San Diego, CA; Joel (Wendy) Dennis Roberts of Cedar Rapids, IA; and Jennifer Elaine Roberts of Buffalo Gap, TX. He is also survived by his stepchildren: Mark (Beth) Carlock, Jill Carlock, and Michael (Leslie) Jordan. Don is survived by his grandchildren: Cody Roberts, Trevor Roberts, Sadie Roberts, Taylor Roberts, Jacob Linn, Hunter Roberts, Hudson Roberts, Donny Roberts, Kendall Theisen, Sidney Theisen, Hallie Good, Keatyn Good, Coen Good, Dane Carlock, Corinna Carlock, Hailey Carlock, and Cam Jordan; and his great-grandchildren: Maxen Roberts and Maverick Roberts. Don's life was one of quiet strength, steady hands, and enduring love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. A gathering of family and friends will be 4:00-6:00 p.m. Thursday, March 5, 2026, at Richardson Funeral Service in Cedar Falls.

Don Roberts

April 23, 1938 - February 14, 2026