John Roberts, 89, of Lewiston, NY and formerly of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away on Saturday, October 17, 2015 at Mt. St. Mary's Hospital in Lewiston, NY. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, he was the son of the late Vincenzo and Genevieve (Ianessa) Roperto.

At the age of 18 months, John moved to Italy with his family where he was raised and educated. He later returned to the United States in 1947 and settled in Niagara Falls, NY. On May 23, 1953 he married Floretta (Fama) Roberts at St. Joseph Church. John was employed as a Heavy Equipment Operating Engineer for the International Union Local 463, until his retirement in 1991. He enjoyed yard work and tending to his garden. He also was an avid New York Yankees fan, and loved listening to John Wayne. Above all, Mr. Roberts enjoyed spending time with his loving family, especially his dog Lucia who will miss him dearly.

In addition to his wife of 62 years, John is survived by four children, Caroline (Alfonso) Galvano of Rochester, NY, Vincent Roberts of Niagara Falls, NY, Maria (Gregory) Rizzo of the Town of Wheatfield, NY and Antonio (Tamara) Roberts of Grand Island, NY; eight grandchildren, Stacey (Raj) Sookram, Christopher (Esther) Galvano, Cara (Don) Silversmith, Nikolas Rizzo, John Rizzo, Anthony Rizzo, Bianca Roberts and Dominica Roberts; three great-grandchildren, Andrew Sookram, Jayden Sookram and Isabella Sookram. John is also survived by his siblings Rosarina Roperto, Maria Roperto, Franco Roperto, Italo (Lidia) Roberto and Nipoti Francesca; as well as, many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by one sister Teresa Roperto.

Visitation will be held on Monday, October 19th from 6 – 9 P.M. and Tuesday from 3 – 8 P.M. at the M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY, where funeral services will begin on Wednesday, October 21st at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Alfonso Galvano officiating. Entombment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. If desired, memorial donations may be made to Our Lady of Fatima Shrine, 1023 Swann Road, Lewiston, NY 14174.