Mark D. Roberts

If a person were looking for a real friend, they would want to know Mark D Roberts. Mark was born in Missoula on June 9, 1979. As a young boy he enjoyed spending time with family and looking up to his big brother, Clint. Mark enjoyed school, 4-H where his love for photography began. He liked to cook with his mom, Lois, and created his own menu for the family to choose from at dinner. He traveled with his dad, Gary, to many Air Force Reserve activities around the state working with the Civil Air Patrol. He even went to Alabama with his dad for several years becoming part of the Cadet Officer’s School for two weeks. He was a hit with the high school cadet members and the adults involved in the program.
Mark graduated with a GED and later earned his two-year Associates degree from the University of Montana. While going to school part-time, he worked at Washington Middle School as a noon duty aide and assistant track coach. He also worked for Rick’s Body Shop, Denny’s Copy Shop, and several mini marts as a cashier.
In 2007 he was traveling to school when he was hit broadside and suffered from a TBI. He struggled with walking and talking, but eventually was able to complete his last math class needed for his Associates degree.
Mark made friends with ease and helped many of them get to and from work when they needed rides. It did not matter what time of day it was, he took time to help when needed. He was always up early when it snowed so he could go help clean off elder family and friend’s sidewalks. He loved driving the 1954 International snow plow he bought from his Great Uncle Jack.
Photography was a passion that give him much joy. He mainly photographed wildlife when he would see it and the eagle became his symbol. He went to Helena to secure his business name of Eagle Eye Photography. Mark and his mom spent many hours discussing what photos he had taken and how he’d like to display it; matted and framed, canvas or metal. What treasured memories those are. One day while walking through Greenough Park he spotted some baby owls and their mom. Those pictures became one of his favorites.
Because of his TBI, Mark struggled to keep jobs, but the last seven months he had a job at Staples in Missoula and found a home with wonderful employees and management. He was a valued employee and received praise from customers and managers.
Mark’s favorite pastime was spending time with his two pit bulls, Teva and Kimber. Teva passed away in 2017 and Kimber became a licensed Comfort Support Dog. Andrea Johnson summed Mark up in her Facebook post: “My heart is very heavy with the loss of such a kind, compassionate, caring friend. You were always there for everybody. Your passion for helping others always shined.” Mark passed away on July 5th, 2019. He will greatly be missed by many. We Love You Mark!!
He is survived by his dad and mom, Gary Roberts and Lois Merkel; his brother, Clint Roberts and Clint’s children, Sim and Kyla. He is also survived his maternal grandmother, Bev Solum, two aunts and five uncles as well as 14 cousins. He was also extremely fond of his great uncle John Badgley. He left behind his beloved emotional support dog, Kimber. He made friends easily in all aspects of his life.
Mark’s celebration of life will be on Monday, July 22 at the Orchard Homes Community Center on West Third at 2:00. There will be a meal following the service open to all his friends and family.