James L. Roberts, 71, of Mount Olive, Ill., born April 15, 1940, in East St. Louis, Ill., died at 4:37 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 6, 2012, at St. Francis Hospital in Litchfield, Ill.



Mr. Roberts was a foreman for American Steel retiring after more than 30 years of dedicated service. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoyed boating, fishing and playing horseshoes.



James was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard P. and Dorothy E., nee Lohman, Roberts.



Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Virginia, nee Walls, Roberts; daughters, Sue (Rick) Penny of Caseyville, Ill., and Jackie (Scott) Klobuchar of Highland, Ill.; grandchildren, Doug (Randi) Penny, Zachary (Jessica) Penny, Amy Klobuchar, Emily Klobuchar and Hayley Klobuchar; and a great-grandchild, Zatanna Penny.



In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting memorials be given to the Multiple Sclerosis Association or the American Cancer Society in care of Herr Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.herrfuneral.com.



Visitation: Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2012, at Herr Funeral Home in Caseyville, Ill.



Funeral: Funeral service will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 8, 2012, at the funeral home with the Rev. Dave Kueker officiating.