Velma Roberts passed on January 3, 2024 at the age of 91. She was born in Pickford, Michigan on April 14, 1932 to Russel and Irene Izzard. She grew up in the Upper Peninsula and after graduating from Pickford High School, attended Michigan State University, and graduated in 1954 with a Home Economics degree.

Her career as a Home Economics teacher included teaching at several Michigan high schools, as well as the Traverse City State Hospital. She was also an MSU Extension Agent in Missaukee and Roscommon counties. Velma often judged baked goods and sewing projects at Michigan county fairs, and she could bake a blue ribbon cherry pie herself!

Velma met her husband, Phil (also a Spartan), on a blind date set up by mutual friends. Velma and Phil were married on August 17, 1957 and shared 36 wonderful years together. They had two children, Mark and Amy.

Velma was a loyal and enthusiastic MSU alumni and loved watching college football and basketball. She may have even loved watching U of M lose more than rooting for MSU to win! Velma also loved the Detroit Tigers.

Phil and Velma joined the Presbyterian Church of Traverse City in 1961. The church was an integral part of their life together and she served as an Elder, clerk of the session, Women's Association president, Sunday school teacher, and on many various committees.

Velma was preceded in death by her parents, husband Phil, brother Darrell, and brother Jim. She is survived by her loving family: son Mark Roberts (Kyle) of Lake Leelanau, daughter Amy Patrick (David) of Chelsea, MI, granddaughters Hannah Hanson (Evan) of St. Joseph, MI and Erica Roberts (Andrew Batek) of St. Joseph, MI, sister Coila Sims, brother Terry Izzard (Judeen), and sister-in-laws Nancy Hoffman and Gerry Izzard.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 20 at the Presbyterian Church of Traverse City at 11:00 AM with a luncheon following the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Presbyterian Church of Traverse City and Grand Traverse Hospice.