Jerry Raye Robertson, 85, of Salina, Kan., passed away Friday, December 29, 2023. He was born January 19, 1938, in Dodge City, Kan., to Bennett and Dora (Baker) Robertson.
Jerry (JR) grew up in rural Kiowa County and attended schools in Greensburg, Kan. He graduated from Kansas State University with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and was employed in the aerospace industry, including Convair, General Dynamics, McDonnell and Boeing. He also worked at Schwan’s for many years. JR was an avid K-State fan and football season ticket holder from 1960 until no longer able to attend. He was a pilot and owned a small single engine airplane. He loved all sports, especially golf, track and running, and he ran Pikes Peak in 1985.
Survivors include his wife, Margaret (Hamel) Robertson, of the home; daughter, Sarah Robertson, of Salina; step-children, Colette Sandquist (Keith Wiese), of Salina, Denise Weiss (Greg), of Salina, and Darren Knipp (Stacy) of Lenexa; grandchildren, Lindsey Sandquist, Stephanie Sandquist-Brown (Spencer), Cassidy, Kristen and Cullen Knipp, and Mason (Taylor), Nathan, Katherine, and Andrew Weiss; brother, Jack Robertson, of Wichita; sister, Peggy Banta, of Greensburg; and sister-in-law, Mary Grace Robertson.
He is preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Sheila; infant grandchildren, Bradley and Courtney Sandquist; brothers, Charles and Jeffrey Robertson; and brother-in-law, Kenny Banta.
Visitation will be from 4-8 p.m., Wednesday, January 3, at Ryan Mortuary, Salina, with a Vigil Service at 6:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m., Thursday, January 4, at St. Mary Queen of the Universe Catholic Church, Salina.