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- ROANOKE, Va. - Cletis Francis "Skeets" Robertson, 85, went home to his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, Oct. 30, 2001.
Born in Renick, he was the son of the late Mary Jane "Molly" Crane Robertson and Cleveland Claudius Robertson.
Mr. Robertson was preceded in death by his brother, Booker Granvill Robertson; and his brother and sister, Hortis and Gladys, who died in their childhood.
He will be deeply missed by his daughter, Donna Marie Roberston Burechson of Roanoke and Philadelphia, and son-in law, Keith Burechson of Philadelphia.
Survivors include a special niece, Glenna Schelch of Homestead, Va., and longtime friend, Marie Kinkaid of Beckley; and a host of family and friends in the Lewisburg and Baltimore areas.
Also mourning his loss are numerous friends who remember Mr. Robertson as a generous, upbeat person with a ready smile, a kind word and a quick wit. He enjoyed walking several miles each day and is fondly remembered by acquaintances, neighbors and friends at the Krispy Kreme Donut Shop as "the gentleman who always wore a hat while out walking."
Mr. Robertson will be greatly missed by the members of his church, Garden City Bible Baptist, where he had been a faithful member for several decades, singing in the choir and performing special music by request. Known throughout the region as a bluegrass and gospel musician, he began writing and performing at an early age. Local and nationally known musicians, many of whom he mentored in the early years of their careers, respected his talents with several instruments, especially the guitar and banjo. His knowledge of the history of early bluegrass music was renown, and he was sought frequently by authors and journalists for his first-hand experiences and friendships in the music industry.
Mr. Robertson retired from J.M. Turner and Co. Inc. in 1981, having worked there for 25 years. His co-workers and business associates whose friendship he had maintained will miss his kindness and willingness to be of help.
Service will be noon Saturday at Oakey's Roanoke Chapel with Mr. Robertson's cousin, the Rev. W.L. Crane, and the Revs. Jeff Gardner and Catherine Houchins officiating. Burial will follow at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, Roanoke.
Friends are invited to share in the loss and celebrate the life of Mr. Robertson with the family from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at Oakey's Roanoke Chapel.
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1916 - 2001 (85 years)
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