David Roberts

David Roberts, 80, passed away peacefully in his home in Salt Lake City, Utah, on March 7, 2025.

David was born on March 4, 1945, in Orem, Utah, to his loving mother, June Moore. At the age of five, he and his mother moved to San Francisco, where they lived across the street from Golden Gate Park. Being that close to the park and the ocean made it feel like his own magical place to explore and play. One of his fondest memories from that time was sitting out on the big porch, watching lightning storms roll in over the bay. This left a lasting impression on him, and he loved storms from then after; a love that was passed on to his children. Rain storms will always remind them of their Dad.

Tragically, when David was fifteen, his mother passed away. He was sent back to Utah to live with relatives. He took a job at the local grocery store and through his natural work ethic and attitude, quickly made his way up to manager of the frozen section. This is where he would meet the love of his life, Melba. A friend of hers said there was this gorgeous guy working at the store so they should go in and look at him. It was love at first sight for them both. Melba spent a lot of money on a lot of ice cream “for her mom” to keep having excuses to go in and see Dave.

They were married two years later, with their marriage solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple.

They moved into a new neighborhood and had their first child, Brian. Brian was such a beautiful and smart baby and they loved him to bits. By his third year, they realized he had a hearing loss.

This experience pointed David into his fifty-year career in the hearing aid business. He was widely respected as a leading hearing specialist. Toward the end of his career he enjoyed a successful tenure in the Murray Costco Hearing Center. The family wants to thank his Costco “family” for their care and friendship.

David was a man’s man, but instead of hanging out with his buds, he preferred to be with his family. His example taught his son that to love, provide for, and protect your family is the most important thing a man can accomplish in life.

And instilled in his three daughters (also beautiful and smart babies loved to bits!) how to treat people with kindness and respect. He showed them how they should expect to be treated and how to be strong in their convictions. And how to run in between the raindrops and snowflakes so you don’t get wet. He was the preeminent girl's dad.

He adored his grandchildren. He loved them unconditionally and continued to be a wonderful grandfather, loving and guiding them as he did his children.

David had a deep love for sports. He was an avid supporter of BYU athletics and enjoyed playing basketball and tennis. He was able to keep playing “churchball” into his late sixties, and could still hold his own with the boys in the ward.

David was also a beloved basketball coach for many years. He was able to impart to them, not only the rules of the game and how to play, but the importance of sportsmanship, kindness and many other life lessons along the way.

Dave loved art, especially Melba’s. He was an avid collector and had a great eye for photography and composition. He loved collecting watches and basketball shoes. He loved to travel. Together, he and Melba toured many places around the world.

A devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, David found strength in his faith throughout his life.

David leaves behind his best friend, constant companion, and wife, Melba Roberts; his son Brian (Virginia-aka Larry); his daughters Cameron (Jimmy from "Joizey") and Abby (Adam-aka JC); and grandchildren Brenen - (aka Francine), David, Samuel, Ryan, and Belen. He was preceded in death by his mother, June Moore, and his daughter Shaye Roberts.

A thought from his grandson, Brenen:

My Grandpa was an exceptional man. Talented and adventurous, physically strong and capable. He treated all people with dignity and respect, and was loved by all who knew him. He was kind and gentle, but knew how to deliver assertive correction when necessary. He was the perfect example of what a man should strive to become, making him a role model for his family and beyond.

What else can we say, he was just THE BEST. He was so cool. He was consistent. He knew who he was and what he believed and what he stood for. He embodied his values with integrity and grace, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know him. May his legacy bring comfort to all who cherished him. Husband, Father, Grandfather, Coach, and Friend.

His viewing will be Wednesday March 12 at 5:30-7:30 at Taylorsville North Central stakehouse - 3120 W. 4700 S. West Valley, Utah.

His graveside service will be Thursday March 13 at 11:00. Memorial Redwood Mortuary and Cemetery, 6500 S Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah