Esther Dornes Roberts

The Lord received a special Angel on November 20, 2014, when Esther Dornes Roberts (93) passed to heaven at Meadowlark Hills, Collins House, in Manhattan, KS. Esther was born January 27, 1921, in rural Geary County to Emil and Cora Sisson Dornes, the youngest of five daughters. She graduated from Alta Vista High School and went to Ohio to help a sister with her children. There she met her husband, Thomas Roberts. They returned to Kansas in 1951 and settled in Auburn. Later they lived in Topeka until Tom's death in 2000 after which she moved to Manhattan and later to Meadowlark Hills.

Esther was a devoted and loving wife, mother and friend. She was a lifelong caregiver for her daughter, Sharon, and helped Sharon overcome many obstacles in her life while also working in various positions outside the home including being a school cook.

Esther is preceded in death by her husband, Tom; her daughter, Sharon; a grandson, Kevin Roberts; a great-grandson, Brett Roberts; her son-in-law, Glassel Flaherty; and all four of her sisters; Fern Shane, Leota Redinger, Lois DeSutter, & Margie DeSutter;.

Survivors include her son, Tom (Jane) Roberts, Topeka; daughter, Bobbie Flaherty, Manhattan; grandchildren, Brad (Lyn) Roberts, Topeka, Diane (Tom) Sakers, Topeka, Erin Staggs, Manhattan; great-grandchildren Bryce and Blake Roberts, and Taylin and Daxton Sakers; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Cremation has occurred. A memorial service and inurnment will take place at a date to be announced later. Memorials may be made to: Easter Seals Capper Foundation,3500 SW 10th St, Topeka, KS 66604; American Cancer Society Hope Lodge, 1120 Pennsylvania Ave, Kansas City, KS 64105; Auburn Presbyterian Church,1101 Washington, Auburn, KS 66402; or the charity of your choice.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Scott Coonrod and his staff, the caring staff at Meadowlark Hills, and the friends who all provided such wonderful care and support throughout Esther's illness.