ROBERTS, Gordon Chapman

The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona, Sunday, January 04, 2015 Gordon Chapman Roberts, 77, passed away Dec. 23, 2014, at his Prescott, Arizona, home with his daughter Courtney and wife Maggie at his side. Apparently, God needed an ace pilot, so Gordon answered and went peacefully with an angel escort. Gordon was born to Keith and Betty Roberts in Lancaster, Michigan, Feb. 28, 1937. After college, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps from 1955 to 1959, and became a sergeant in the Marine Recon unit. He was always a squared-away, proud Marine and true to the corps. He joined the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department in 1961, serving as a deputy for five years. Gordon always loved flying and began as a flight instructor at the Santa Monica Airport and for Swift Aire in California for two years. From 1978 to 1986, he was a contract pilot with TWA and became the chief pilot for the Royal Family and Saudi Arabian Airlines, living in Jeddah, before returning to Phoenix. Gordon was hired by America West as a captain in 1987 and enjoyed this career immensely. He flew with AW for 10 years. This was his favorite aviation stint. From 1998, Gordon was a contract pilot who flew private aircraft, mostly the Gulfstream IV, for various Hollywood movie studios, celebrities and business executives, retiring from the cockpit in 2008, after 49 years in the aviation industry. His career took him around the world and he cherished memories of various cultures and lifestyles. Gordon's passion in his volunteering for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) to assist special-needs youth and his active involvement in the Veterans History Project speaks for his kindness and desire to "give back." He adored his grandson, Rio, and granddaughter, Iyla. He will forever be remembered for his love of family, loyal friendships, warmth and good humor, unselfishness, community service and his pie-baking skills. He was a true gentleman and squared-away Marine. He is survived by his wife Margaret (Harris) Roberts; daughter Courtney; and grandchildren Rio and Iyla Timmons. A private Celebration of Life is planned. Information provided by survivors.