Cora Colleen Roberts

Cora Colleen Roberts, 86, of Grand Rapids, Michigan and formerly of Elkhart, passed away on Monday, December 31, 2018.  Colleen, as she was known to friends and family was born in

Bridgeton, Indiana on December 27, 1932, to Marjorie Jessup Case and Max Case.  She was the youngest of three children.  Older brother, Seba Higley Case, survives along with his wife, Blanche Hartman Case.  Colleen was preceded in death by brother, George Hiram and his wife, Arletta Lowe Case.  Colleen grew up in Bridgeton and went on to Indiana State University where she earned her bachelor's degree in education.  She married Richard (Dick) Eugene Roberts in 1954 and taught elementary school in Rosedale, IN, leaving her position when it was time to raise a family.  She worked tirelessly and lovingly to raise Jane Ann Roberts (Asher), James Scott and John Max Roberts.  Colleen and Dick moved quite a bit in the early days of their marriage, finally settling in Elkhart, IN. 

Colleen leaves a legacy of enthusiasm, the gift of silliness, sense of style, love of music and dance, and being a great encourager.  She had a low tolerance for trivial small talk but in later years grew to love playing games involving trivia.  Her favorite movie was Gone with the Wind and in the 70's she loved the song Sweet Caroline.  If you listen closely outside our family home on Strong Avenue, you can probably still hear the echoes of Neil and Colleen singing.  She was a patient mother who worked hard to bring meaningful and varied experiences to her children.  When interviewed at Clark Retirement Home, she revealed that her greatest accomplishment was raising her children.  She will get no argument from Jane, Jim or John.

Later in life, Mom returned to school at Indiana University at South Bend, earning her Master's degree in education.  Over the years, she worked as a substitute teacher and tutor.  She loved selling World Book Encyclopedia! 

Besides Seba, Blanche and her children, Cora leaves behind 4 grandchildren; Brian Asher, Montana Roberts, Willis Roberts and Madison Roberts and 5 great granddaughters, sister-in-law Judy (Roberts) Hughes, 5 nieces and 2 nephews.  Private family visitation was held at Billings Funeral Home, cremation was chosen with burial at a later date at Rice Cemetery. 

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