Obituary: Michael Lee Roberts

Obituary published and funeral arrangements entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory

Michael Lee Roberts

Michael Lee Roberts, 65, of Joliet, Illinois, passed away peacefully with his baby girl by his side on Friday, September 25, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Michael was born on November 10, 1960, in Joliet, the son of the late Roger and Barbara (nee Schure) Roberts. He was a graduate of Plainfield High School and received his degree in Culinary Arts from Joliet Junior College.

Michael was a man who found joy in the simple things in life—working with his hands, spending time with people, and enjoying good food. He had a lifelong passion for motors and loved working on cars. He also enjoyed his years driving a school bus, where he had the opportunity to connect with and care for the people around him. Michael’s love of food led him to work as a chef, a role that allowed him to share another of his passions with others.

A devoted NASCAR fan, Michael especially loved Dale Earnhardt and could often be found following the races and enjoying the excitement of the sport. He also had an adventurous side and was proud to have run two Chicago Marathons.

Above all, Michael treasured his family. He will be deeply missed by his son, Steven Baker; his “baby girl,” Shannon (fiancé, Paul Anderson) Fox; and his beloved grandchildren—his racing buddy, Gavin, and his two princesses, Brynlee and Everlyn. Michael is also survived by his siblings, Diane (Jack) Rancour, Melody (Tom) Norwood, Kimberly (the late James) Fischer, Kenneth Roberts, Doug (Darlene) Roberts, Robin (Tracy) McCandless, and Roger Lee Roberts, Jr.; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other loved ones.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Roger and Barbara Roberts; his maternal grandparents Kenneth and Helen Schure; and his paternal grandparents, Wally and Marcella Roberts.

Michael will be remembered for his love of cars, NASCAR, good food, and, most importantly, the people he loved. His presence, laughter, and the memories he created with his family and friends will remain in their hearts forever.

Funeral Services for Michael Lee Roberts will be held at 10:00 a.m., on Friday, October 2, 2026, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd., Joliet, IL. Interment will follow at Mt. Vernon Cemetery in Lemont. Visitation wll be held at the funeral home chapel on Thursday, October 1, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his name to Imerman Angels, 2001 N. Halsted Street, Suite 302, Chicago, IL 60614.

For more information please call 815-741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.

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