Lasting Memories

Russell Roberson
Jan. 10, 1958-Dec. 2, 2012
Brentwood, California

Russell Roberson, 54, a 20-year resident of Mountain View, died December 2, 2012 in Brentwood, CA. He recently bought a beautiful new home in Brentwood, CA, along with his wife, Pamela and son, Alex. Russell received a bachelor's degree from San Jose State, and was employed by NASA Ames. Russ was an active basketball player, runner, musician. He was a huge SF Giants fan, and Warriors. He enjoyed playing his guitar, bass guitar, drums with a band "War" back in the 80's, and has taught numerous individuals as a hobby. Russell is survived by his beautiful wife Pamela Hilton, of Brentwood, son Alex Roberson, step-daughter Christa Sanchez, Alyshia Sanchez. He adored his two granddaughters, Raelyn and Maxine. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

From Pamela Roberson
Dec. 26, 2013

It's been over a year, and I miss you like it was the day you passed. I'm still perplexed as to why you were taken from us so soon. Alex is still having a very hard time without you. It's sad when one isn't as much appreciated until they're not around. I love you so much!!!

From dave minjares
Jan. 23, 2013

I am an old friend of Russ' and I'm stunned to learn of his passing. My heartfelt condolences go out to his wife and son. Russ seemed elated to have found happiness in his life. We worked together as managers at McDonald's when we were 18/19. I attended many of his performances with the bands Modern Made and Blow at clubs, house parties, and even an old high school once. Russ decided to move to L.A. and give himself a few years to break into the music industry. He said that if it didn't happen in that time, he would return and pursue another career. Russ' open-mindedness and decisiveness was inspiring. My ex-wife and I threw Russ a going away party for him at our apartment and I have a very cherished picture of him and I at that event. I visited him in L.A. a couple of times and we went to the beach and nightclubs. Russ could sing, play guitar, drums and especially bass. I think he played a trumpet too. His musical influence had a profound impact on me. Russ had an appreciation for all kinds of music. Russ left us far too soon and I will always remember his kindness and tolerance.

From Melinda Minjares
Jan. 23, 2013

I was fortunate enough to know Russ through my brother Dave. Russ was a very humble guy and extremely talented. When I was about 13, I had the opportunity to watch him "jam" while my brother Daniel played the drums - it was the middle of the afternoon and here were these two guys playing it up for me and my friends in my Dad's family room. I thought it was so cool. Thank you for the great memories - you will always be remembered

From Andy Brenner
Jan. 23, 2013

Im a good friend of Dave Minjares, and knew of Russ very well. Me and Daniel, dave's brother, were hommies in high school. Daniel and Russ used to jam back on Alba court. Russ still looks the same. So sorry for your loss

From Bill Caldwell
Dec. 19, 2012

My family offers our deepest sympathy to the family of Russ Roberson. We are so sorry for your loss. It was a pleasure to know Russ as a fellow NASA co-worker and as a teammate of many years in the Ames Softball League. Russ was always easy-going and was rarely one to complain. His professionalism and sportsmanship (and skills) were always greatly valued and appreciated. Russ always seemed to offer a positive influence to those in his company and he will be truly missed.

From Anthony Anderson
Dec. 11, 2012

My condolences to Russ family. I knew Russ from basketball and Ames. We worked together for a few years and played basketball together about 20 years. He was good friend and we shared a lot of laughs on the court. I will missed Russ. I use to shout out on the court "Russ Bust", meaning he was on hot streak of making baskets. We teased each other over the years as we aged and slow down in running speed. Family, stay strong and my blessing goes out to you. Anthony

From Irene Trapp
Dec. 8, 2012

At church, Russ was playing drums, but then we found out he also played the guitar. When I asked him if he would play, he said that maybe but he had a little arthritis in his pinky. Well, he impressed us with his talent even with an arthritic pinky - he blew us away! What a sweet man! Peace and love to the family. May God be your comfort and strength.

From Dora Herrera
Dec. 7, 2012

I knew Russ since 1989 when he first came to Ames as a student intern from De Anza College. He was sharp and very dedicated in his work for NASA. Each day Russ had a smile for everyone and always had a few minutes to talk with you too. This was true if he worked with you daily or you saw him years later on Center. Russ was a special person and will be missed by many. I am so sorry to hear of his sudden passing and my thoughts and prayers are with his family.

From Tim Wood
Dec. 6, 2012

We are all grieving the loss of Russ Roberson. He faithfully helped us connect with God through music here at EVC. He seemed to always be smiling, especially when he was playing the guitar or the drums. We are praying for Pamela and Alex as they deal with this huge loss in their life. "The Lord is with you. The Lord will strengthen you and help you and uphold you with his righteous hand." (Isaiah 41:10)

From Pamela
Dec. 6, 2012

The best day of our lives...bringing Alex into our world. I never saw you happier. Please watch over him and give me guidance.

From Pamela Roberson
Dec. 6, 2012

I just want to thank everyone for their very warm thoughts and condolences. Your comments about Russ mean so much to me, and he was blessed to know all of you. He was suffering a lot, and if it helps us in anyway, he's at peace now, and with his mom who passed last year. I cried along with him many days over the last few months, and I know he hated his life the way it was. He often said "I would trade places with you in a heart beat". He meant because I could walk. You all know he was active and outgoing so it was getting to be too much, but he fought on and did everything he possibly could to get better. He had pizza the night before, and we decorated the tree. He was in good spirits. I'm so lucky to have had 12 years with him. The picture is the last one taken before he had surgery and everything went down hill from there (San Diego Business trip). I love you so much, Russ.

From Karen Bradford
Dec. 5, 2012

Our deepest condolences on your loss and blessings to your family during this time and after. We will miss your amazing smile and persistent and dedicated work effort to NASA and to the NASA family.

From Damon Ried
Dec. 5, 2012

I worked with Russ for 20 years and had the pleasure of going on three deployments with him. Chincoteague Island, Virgina. Canary Islands, Spain. The most memorable was a 4 day training class in Los Angles. On Sept 9, 2001, Russ arrived at the airport carrying a guitar onto the flight. On Sept 11, 7:10am, he was knocking on my hotel door, telling me that terrorist had just knocked over the World Trade Center. The class was canceled for the day, and while the rest of the world was watching the events on TV, Russ and I, using his local knowledge of LA, spent the day crisscrossing LA on its nearly empty freeways, on a once in a lifetime sightseeing excursion. Russ was a selfless man in a 'me first' generation. He was a loyal husband to his wife and a terrific father to their children. Russ will live on in the memories of those whose lives he touched.

From Robert L Finnie
Dec. 5, 2012

My condolences to the family. May God love and peace comfort you in this hour.

From Barry Stokes
Dec. 5, 2012

My deepest sympathy to the family of Russ Roberson. I met and got to know Russ through basketball and was deeply saddened to hear of his passing. Russ was an excellent player and I enjoyed playing with him, especially when we were on the same team. Occasionally, he would bring his son (a great kid who shared the same passion for shooting as Russ) along with him to the gym. Russ will truly be missed, but I know he's playing on the Lord's winning team now. God Bless.

From David Wright
Dec. 5, 2012

What a terrible and shocking loss. Russ was such a talent, such a gracious guy - a real gentleman. I only knew him for a few years, but his masterful playing brought such joy and blessing to so many people at Evergreen Valley Church. Many prayers are being offered at EVC for Pam and Alex.

From Jim Alwyn
Dec. 5, 2012

My deepest condolences go out to Russ' family. I knew Russ as a peer, classmate, and subordinate and in all realms I will always remember him as an upstanding man and consummate professional. Russ was a key member of the Center Operations Directorate family and he will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Jim Alwyn

From Randy Young
Dec. 5, 2012

I am speechless! What an honor it was to be a part of the EVC Worship team with you. Not just a talented musician, but a wonderful human being. I loved the talks we'd have during and after rehearsals and between services. I was only there a few years but I learned a lot just being around you. Our prayers go out to your family.

From Garrick Mitchell
Dec. 5, 2012

Russ and I played many years of basketball. I remember your smiles before, during and after our basketball games. One day Russ made 7 baskets in a row; I asked Russ, how did you get so hot? He shurgged his shoulders and kept playing...It's all good... Miss you much

From Craig Martin
Dec. 5, 2012

My condolences to you and your family. I first met Russ at EVC while we were playing together in the worship band. Always happy and upbeat and willing to play guitar , bass or whatever was needed. Fun guy to be around and very passionate about the things he cared for. Your family is in our prayers.

From Rhonda Baker
Dec. 5, 2012

Russ was admired and respected by many at NASA Ames. Quiet, yet a team player who worked well with his colleagues. Russ was always willing to accept new tasks. He will truly be missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Roberson family. God Bless.

From Ginny Moore
Dec. 5, 2012

I loved being a part of the EVC worship team with you. Not only were you a talented guitar player, but you could sing and harmonize amazingly. I remember great talks about family, children, and remember the love you shared about Pam and Alex, how fun it was to have a little boy. Do not understand God's timing. Pam, I pray that and Alex feel the Lord's love and care at this time. We at EVC are here for you 24/7.

From Bob
Dec. 5, 2012

How sad. Russ was one of the nicest guys and always so positive. He was an outstanding musician and I enjoyed sharing a stage with him serving our Lord. My family's condolences to his family, and I will miss him. We will see him again.

From Paul and LeAnne Varenkamp
Dec. 5, 2012

We enjoyed our time in Evergreen with Russ, Pamela and Alex so much. Russ has such a gentle spirit and kind heart, and it was such a joy to serve the Lord alongside him. We will be praying for Pamela, Alex, and the rest of the family, that you all would draw close to Jesus and find comfort in Him. Grieving with you. Love, LeAnne and Paul

From Mike Frediani
Dec. 4, 2012

I feel blessed and fortunate have known you in my life. As your supervisor for many years here at NASA/Ames, I was proud to support your career and reward you for all of your outstanding accomplishments. I will miss your creative thinking, quick wit, soulful disposition and genuine smile. It's hard to believe that we just spoke on the phone 4 days before you left us and I will never forget the positive outlook and enthusiasm you expressed as you battled on. I pray that you are at rest and with your loved ones. You will be forever remembered here at Ames and undoubtedly missed by all that had the pleasure of working with you. God bless you and your family.

From Pamela
Dec. 4, 2012

You and Alex at a baseball game. How am I going to fill your shoes? I can't! I need you to take him to basketball games, baseball games, coach Little League. God, Alex needs you so much. I know he's gone through so much already, and now the loss of his daddy. I hope I can do a few of those things with him.

From Lorin Belanger
Dec. 4, 2012

Going to miss you Russ after being your co-worker and friend over the last 20 years. I enjoyed meeting your family and having us over for your Wedding Celebration. Sinse our work group split up and not seeing each other as much, I loved when we did talk and us talk about the kids and their kids. I still remember you brining Alex to a few of my sons Little League games and I thank you for coming. Russ you left to soon and you will be greatly missed. My family will be saying a prayer for your family

From ginny
Dec. 4, 2012

Russ used to play at EVC in the worship team. Even though his instrument was bass, he knew we needed a drummer... so he learned to play the drums. Then when we needed a guitar player... he learned that.. then he thought about picking up the keys. What struck me was not that he was just talented, but that he would do whatever was needed and whenever. He was sort of my 'go to guy.' He had a heart that was over-sized in caring for others and giving to others. I will miss his smile, his warmth, his kindness, his gentleness, his easy ways and laughter... his friendship. I will miss him!

From Christa
Dec. 3, 2012

I miss you so much! I know you tried your hardest to get better, it was a difficult battle. You're pain free now. You have no idea how hard this is for us. I keep hearing your voice in my head. I'm so sorry this happened to you. You didn't deserve it. I'm angry, heartbroken and baffled. I wish there was something I could have done to save your life but God and your mom won that one. You are in a better place now. Maybe in heaven your body will be back to its normal healthy self again. I love you Russ

From Pamela
Dec. 3, 2012

You brought such joy as my husband and a great father. I don't understand why you were taken from us so soon. You made such an incredible effort to get better. You were so excited about your new home, and raising our son here. I'm lost now. But God will guide me in the right direction. My only comfort is knowing you're not suffering. But I miss my buddy, my husband and it will never be the same without you.

From Wife
Dec. 3, 2012

I love this photo of you, your mom and our son. 3 generations. What three beautiful people. Someday we'll all be together. I am so angry you left us so soon. Why? I think your mom wanted you to come home to her. I pray to God you are at peace and will watch over your son.