Obituary of Clarence B. Roberts

CLARENCE ROBERTS A private graveside service will be held in Santa Barbara for Clarence Roberts who died in Santa Cruz on September 22, 2010 ,at the age of 94. Born in Schenectady, New York, he moved to California in 1941, working in San Diego as a draftsman with General Electric. He became a mechanical engineer with Convair as WW II escalated, and later was employed with McDonnell Douglas, and retired with Hughes Aircraft Corporation in 1978. Mr. Roberts's career in mechanical engineering spanned 38 years. He was very proud of his association with his profession and his personal accomplishments. Mr. Roberts was responsible for designing the controls of the DC6 Aircraft, and developed the dampened landing pads of the lunar module which was used on all manned Apollo space missions. Mr. Roberts was a long time resident of Santa Barbara moving there in 1956. He was an avid golfer and also belonged to numerous bowling leagues. His family will forever hold dear the many memories of his beautiful garden where he grew roses and camellias, and the infamous battles fought with gophers. He moved to Santa Cruz in 2007 and leaves many dear friends at Dominican Oaks. He is survived by his son and daughter-in law, Marty and Barbara Roberts of Santa Cruz, daughter and son-in law, Cindy Roberts Hosler and Tim; loving grandchildren: John Roberts, Daniel Miller, Nathan Miller, and Tricia McKay; five great grandchildren, Baker, Noah, Jacob, Kate, and Savannah. Burial will be held at Calvary Cemetery, in Santa Barbara. He will be laid to rest in a private ceremony beside his wife, Marion Roe Roberts who preceded him in death in 1977. Any kind acts of charity may be made to your local hospice organization.