Gene Alfred Roberts, age 79 of Oroville, died on Sunday, February 7, 2016 at Regency Omak. He was born February 15, 1936 in Tonasket, Washington to parents Lester and Ellen Roberts.

Gene grew up in Oroville and graduated from Oroville High School in 1954. Gene was an exceptional athlete in high school and received a football scholarship from Eastern Washington College. He chose to enter the U.S. Army instead and served in the U.S. Army from 1954-1956, stationed in Okinawa. Following an honorable discharge, he then began college at Eastern and graduated in 1962 with an accounting degree. In May of 1960, he married Linda Wagoner in Spokane and together they had two children. They later divorced.

Gene worked for Boeing from 1962- 1970 and then returned to Oroville where he began working with family in the Apple Business. He continued working as an orchard foreman for the next 20 years. Gene then went to work for Princes Center for the next 13 years until his retirement. In 1992, he married Rita Morrison and they were later divorced. Gene was involved with many community groups and volunteered with the Boys and Girls Club of King County, he helped with the tennis program in Oroville, was President of the Chamber of Commerce, head of the May Day Association and loved all the historical aspects of Okanogan County, especially the Ruby Mine

Gene is survived by his children Lesley (Mike) Thornton of Riverside and Mike (Tina) Roberts of Okanogan, his brother Gary (Shirley) Roberts of Oroville, his sister Dorthy (Tom) Wagoner of Kenai, Alaska, five grandchildren Kyle (Kara) Thornton, Megan (Daniel) Montano, Matthew Thornton, Alex Thornton and Tiffany (Cody) Jones and one great granddaughter Lexi-Grace Montano

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, numerous aunts and uncles.

At his request, no services will be held. In lieu of flowers or cards please donate to Okanogan Borderlands Historical Society, 1210 Ironwood, Oroville, WA 98844.

Bergh Funeral Service and Crematory in care of arrangements.