Obituary of John Ralph Roberson

John Roberson, a native of Scotts Valley, died in his home April 21 of natural causes. He was 58. John is survived by his sons Corky and Clint, grandchildren Carson, Cameron and Tyler, and his brother Ron. He was preceded in death by his father, C.R. Roberson, his mother, Marcia Roberson, and his brother, Doug Roberson. At the age of 12, Johnny was a heavy equipment operating engineer making more money than most adults. His family ran the largest construction company in Scotts Valley. He later became the owner of Roberson Construction. Much of Scotts Valley's site work was developed by John including City Hall, the old roller rink, Siltanen Park, city water wells and countless road ways and housing pads. The little league major's field in Siltanen Park carries his name. As a teenager, Roberson was a member of the city's teen council that organized dances for youth out of the old airport hangar where the community center is today. After graduating from Soquel High in 1969, Roberson later developed the Scotts Valley Businessman's Association, which did volunteer construction work for a town that was just getting off the ground. By the age of 26 John was living large, hard and fast. John played as hard as he worked and was one of Scotts Valley's more colorful personalities. John was active in the lions Club and was a lifetime member of SV Sportsman's Club. By the age of 45 John had lost most everything he considered dear including his health. But, through his losses he turned to Jesus Christ. He spent the last five years of his life as an active member of GateWay Bible Church and developed a ministry he called "Word on Wheels." John put large print bible verses on the back of his wheelchair and became a roving herald of the Word of God. He blessed many as he drove his wheelchair down Scotts Valley Drive and around town, sharing God's word and passing out wooden crosses. His wheelchair had the words, "God is my pilot" written across the front. John is a testimony to the transforming power of God in a person's life. His memorial service will be on Saturday, May 8 at 3:00 at GateWay Bible Church in Scotts Valley.