Poultney - David Allan Roberts, 81, passed away peacefully on October 9, 2025. Born on November 17, 1943, David lived a life filled with dedication, service, and love for his family, country, and community.

A proud graduate of Poultney High School, Class of 1961, David was a determined Blue Devil football player. He loved to reminisce with his family about his glory days on the football field, sharing his stories with great pride and a sparkle in his eye. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving honorably from 1961 to 1964. Following his naval service, David continued his commitment to his country by joining the Vermont Air National Guard, where he became a proud member of the Green Mountain Boys, 158th Fighter Wing Squadron. He retired in 2000 with the rank of Master Technical Sergeant, a title that reflected his skill, leadership, and devotion to his fellow servicemembers. He was also a long time member of the Poultney American Legion. In his younger years he would proudly march alongside fellow Legion members in Poultney's Fourth of July parade.

In 1968, David began his long career with General Electric, where he worked diligently until his retirement in 2000. That same dedication and focus carried into his home life, where he loved spending time in his shop tinkering, organizing tools, and working on small projects. David especially enjoyed building model airplanes—a passion that reflected his precision and creativity. He also loved taking care of his yard and could often be found on his mower; David never met a lawnmower he didn't like, and he took great pride in keeping his lawn perfectly manicured.

In July 1970, David married the love of his life, Linda (Chilson) Roberts, and together they built a beautiful family grounded in love and laughter. He is survived by his beloved children:

• Katie and Will Casey, and grandchildren Milani and Owen.

• Kristie and Matthew LeVitre, and grandchildren Sophia, Addilynn, Tobin, Norah, and Theodore.

• Lorena and Kevin Slavings, and grandchildren Kailea and Stormy King, and great-grandchildren Jameson and Rowan, along with Ian and Shelby Slavings, and great-grandchildren Lorelei and Asher.

David was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt and pick berries. He was known for battling mosquitoes and thorns to get the very best berries—and often eating plenty along the way—returning home with a full belly, purple-stained hands, and a proud grin. He was also a devoted reader, particularly fond of military history and ghost stories. Above all, he was a deeply patriotic man—proud of his service and proud of his country. Every year until his health prevented it, David would place American flags on the gravesites of fallen soldiers in Poultney and Hampton, NY for Memorial Day.

He regaled in the antics of his local grandchildren and loved to watch over them as they played in the backyard. He was the best Pop and was always ready with a story or a lollipop.

He will also be missed by his faithful companions, his cat Lucy and his dog Keeper, who were constant sources of comfort and joy.

David will be remembered for his integrity, his storytelling, his humor, and the quiet strength and humbleness that guided his family. His love and presence will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, please plant a berry bush in the spring in remembrance of David .