Handel Roberts

Roberts, Handel, 98, of Windber, went to be with the Lord on April 28, 2012 at the Church of the Brethren Home, Windber. He was born on October 18, 1913 in Lancashire, England. Son of John Wesley and Sarah (Judd) Roberts. Preceded in death by parents; wife, Anna Mae (Friedel) Roberts; daughter, Pamela G. Roberts; brothers, Ewart, Edwin, Wesley and George; sisters, Annie Watkins, Alberta Quinn, and Joyce Zebrowski. He is survived by his loving sons, H. Jay married to the former Susan L. McCracken, Canton, OH and William C. Roberts, Windber; granddaughter, Rhiannon L., wife of Brian Snyder, Midway, PA; brother, Hayden Roberts, Tallahassee, FL and numerous nieces and nephews. Handel was a US Navy Veteran serving during WW II. He retired in 1977 from Bethlehem Steel, where he was employed for over 33 years as an Industrial Engineer. Handel was a member of the Richland Christian Church. He was Past Master of the Sunnehanna Lodge #742 F&AM; Thrice Illustrious Master of Cambria Council #32; Past Eminent Commander Oriental Cammandry #61; Past Puissant Sovereign of Red Cross of Constantine; Knight York Cross of Honor; 32 Degree Valley of Pittsburgh; Jaffa Shrine and life member of the Scalp Level – Paint Fire Company E.M.S. Handel served as Richland Township Supervisor from 1966 – 1973. He enjoyed volunteering with the Blind Association and Tai Chi until January of this year. Handel loved helping people and will be remembered for his giving nature. At Handel’s request there will be no public viewing. Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at 11 A.m. on Tuesday at the Harris Funeral Home, Richland, with the Rev. Dr. Frank Brosius officiating. Private inurnment will be held at the convenience of the family at Forest Lawn Memorial Park. The family suggests contributions be directed to the Windber Public Library,1909 Graham Avenue Windber, PA 15963 in memory of Handel. On line condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.