Thomas C. Roberts Sr.

Thomas C. Roberts, Sr., 85, passed away peacefully on August 11, 2021 in Hilton Head, South Carolina. He was surrounded by his loving wife Dedra of 49 years, his sons Chris & Andrew, and his daughter Julia.

Tom lived life to the fullest. He was always grateful for the “life he was blessed with,” and he cared deeply for family and friends. All who knew him should know that they were in his heart and memories.

Tom was born in Schenectady, New York. During the Korean Conflict, he joined the United States Navy believing it would be his career, but later decided to attend Siena College where he worked his way through on the GI Bill and making pizzas as co-owner of Five Corners Pizzeria. He went on to graduate with a Bachelor of Business Administration and a minor in Philosophy (and anyone who knew him truly appreciated his advice). After graduation, he joined Charles L. Marvin and Company where he became a Certified Public Accountant. In 1970, he became an audit partner in the firm where he remained until his retirement. 

Over the years he was active in the community and honored by his time as the Exalted Ruler of the Rotterdam Elks Lodge, and President of the Saratoga County Council Boy Scouts of America, including being a recipient of The Silver Beaver Award for distinguished service to youth. Tom was also  a Charter Member of the Board of Trustees of the Irish American Heritage Museum in Upstate New York, and a proud member of his local veterans association.

Personally, Tom enjoyed camping in Lake George, followed by boating on the Great Sacandaga Lake. At age 58, he learned how to ski, and in his 60’s, golf became his outdoor passion. In his 70’s, he cherished his family trips to Disney World with his four grandchildren. At age 83, he was overjoyed at sinking his first hole-in-one!

He firmly believed “life is for the living” so please keep your memories of him shining bright and celebrate his life by enjoying yours to the fullest.  

A Memorial Service in Bluffton, South Carolina, and a Funeral Service with Military Funeral Honors at the Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville, New York, are expected to be held on dates yet to be determined. In honor of his life, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Thomas C. Roberts, Sr. to the American Cancer Society, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or charity of your preference.

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