Ernest P. Roberts, 89, Minneola, FL passed away May 26, 2013 at home. He was born July 19, 1923 in Key West son of Floriette Tift & Paul Roberts. A fifteen year central Florida resident from Miami, he retired from Otis Elevators as a mechanic. He was an active member & former officer of IUEC Union #71 in Miami. His wife Phyllis preceded him in death. Surviving are his daughters Pamela Chambers & Donna (Michael) Fish all of Minneola & Carol (John) Albrecht of Clermont; grandchildren Tammy Pitt; Lisa (Jon) Crocker& Melissa (Toby) Best & great-grandchildren Ashley, Austin, Will & Emily. The following is a quote from John Petitt sent about five years ago. "Ernie P. Roberts started in the elevator trade in 1942 following his graduating from Miami High School in 1941. He started as a helper at 99 cents an hour and his union dues card cost 10 cents an hour. He is the only person in Local 71 history to proudly serve each and every position in a local union. He has served as Guard, Warden, and Correspondent to the Journal, Recording Secretary from 1959 to 1967, Financial Treasurer 1968-1969 and again 1973-1981, President 1970-1971, and Business Representative 1982-1983 before retiring in 1984. That's over thirty years of dedicated service to Local 71. "I really loved working in the elevator industry and in the union." said Ernie. We at local 71 Thank You E.P.! At 84 years of age he is the oldest living Local 71 retired member with the most years of service."



The funeral service for Mr. Roberts will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, June 1, 2013 in the Becker Chapel. Reverend Michael Lanway, a nephew of Mr. Roberts, will officiate. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service time. BECKER FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 806 W. Minneola Ave., Clermont, FL 34711. Telephone 352-394-7121. Guestbook at beckerfamilyfuneral.com.



The funeral service for Mr. Roberts will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, June 1, 2013 in the Becker Chapel. Reverend Michael Lanway, a nephew of Mr. Roberts, will officiate. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service time. BECKER FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 806 W. Minneola Ave., Clermont, FL 34711. Telephone 352-394-7121. Guestbook at beckerfamilyfuneral.com