Obituary of Henry R. Roberts

Private Henry Reese Roberts “Hank” Henry passed away at his Olympia home on Tuesday April 17, 2012. Hank was born Friday, October 13, 1930 an only child to Ebenezer Reese and Gladys Winifred (Thompson) Roberts in Olympia. He grew up in Thurston County, having attended Rochester grades schools and high school transferring to Olympia High School (William Winlock Miller) graduating in 1949. He then attended the University of Washington and studied Forestry for 2 years. During that time he served with United States Coast Guard Reserves. He then worked for Weyerhaeuser Company logging in the Vail, Chehalis and PeEll areas retiring after 34 1/2 years. On May 27, 1971 he married Norma Jean (Seik) DeWitt and together they raised their eight children. Hank and Norma were involved in the many activities of their busy family. They enjoyed opening their home to family and friends, for various gatherings. Hank was an avid sports fan especially the Seahawks and Mariners. He enjoyed gardening especially his Rhododendrons, and vegetables. He was known for his Corn and vegetables, and he and his wife Norma enjoyed hosting many corn feeds during the summer. He was getting ready to setup a Hydroponic Garden so they could have home grown tomatoes and lettuce during the winter. Hank enjoyed hunting and fishing with his friends and family, and attending his Friday Morning Brunch at the Casino. Hank was a member of Olympia Lodge #1 F. & A.M.; Scottish Rite Valley of Olympia; Olympia Chapter #36, Order of the Eastern Star where he served as Worthy Patron many times. He was active in the Grand Chapter of Washington, Order of the Eastern Star, and the NRA. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Norma, Children Richard (Joy) Roberts of Ocean Shores, WA, Robert DeWitt of Eldorado Hills, CA, David Roberts of Chehalis, Rick (Janet) DeWitt of League City, Texas, Mary (Marty) Roberts Meyer of Olympia, Sheri Beutler of Tacoma, Kevin (Michelle) DeWitt of Lancaster, New Hampshire and Michelle (Jamie) Smith of Olympia, 18 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren, and Host of friends. Hank touched many lives and will be greatly missed. The family suggests memorials may be made to The Children’s Shrine Hospital 3101 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, Oregon 97239. A Celebration of Henry’s life will be held Tuesday, April 24, 2012. 11:00 a.m. at the Masonic Temple 510 North Street Tumwater, Washington. Please leave your remembrances and memorials on the guestbook below.