65, of Colchester
Timothy “Tim” Roberts, 65, of Colchester, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on September 11, 2025. He was born on October 26, 1959, in Macomb, Illinois, to Harold and Virginia Roberts. On July 23, 1988, Tim married the love of his life, Cathy Sosnowski, in Macomb. Together they shared 40 wonderful years of love, partnership, and adventures.
Tim grew up in the Colchester area and attended Colchester High School. He carried a strong work ethic throughout his life and was always willing to help anyone in need. Through his work as a contract laborer for many companies and his time as a skilled hunting guide, he built countless friendships. An avid outdoorsman, Tim enjoyed fishing, catching frogs and snapping turtles, golfing, and spending countless hours in the woods hunting deer, squirrels, and mushrooms. He also treasured the quiet companionship of his dogs. Those who knew Tim will remember his quick sense of humor, his steady presence, and his deeply rooted values.
Tim leaves behind many broken hearts with his passing. He is survived by his wife, Cathy Roberts; his children Becky (Bear) Denman, Brooke (Jerry) Bailey, Felicia (Glenn) Wachob, and Timothy (Jordyn) Roberts; and his grandchildren Leo and Lyncoln Denman, Brynlynn and Tripp Wachob, and Conner and Orion Cannon. He is also survived by his siblings Judy (Gary) Haskins and Larry (Shirley) Roberts; his brothers- and sisters-in-law Chris (Amy) Sosnowski, Theresa Gruver, Mark (Becky) Hays, Ann (Jerry) Lauber, Brian (Amy) Hays, and Lisa (Tony) Miraglia; and his special nephews Mike and Steve Haskins, greatnephew Buck Mason, along with Larry Wayne, Bill, and Jerry Roberts (and spouses). In addition, he leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, great-great-nieces and nephews, and his two beloved dogs, Baby Girl and Trigger.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Junior Lee Roberts; half-brothers Delbert, Howard, and James Roberts; half-sisters Betty Webster and Beverly Nelson; his father- and mother-in-law Alexander and Theresa Sosnowski; his brothers-in-law and sister-in-law Alex Sosnowski, Steven Hays, Melissa Hays, Robert Hays (Kathy survives), Michael Hays (Lisa survives), and Curtis Hays (Sherry survives); his nephew Jason Haskins; and his very special niece, Diana Markland.
Tim embraced the simple joys of life. He loved spending time with friends and family, often cooking up what many called the best fried catfish in the county. Whether working on projects at home or sharing stories during hunting season, he brought fun, laughter, and an easygoing spirit to every gathering. He was known for his strong presence — a man who may have “toed the line” a time or twenty but was always the life of the party and quick to lend a hand. Tim was also considered an honorary member of many families who welcomed him as one of their own. In the 1980s, he was a proud and devoted member of The Iron Axe Men of Central Illinois Motorcycle Club, where he forged friendships that lasted a lifetime. He was often described as having a tough outer shell, but once you knew him, you knew his heart, and you loved him.
Tim is no longer in pain and is dancing in heaven. He is now at peace, reunited with his beloved dogs, Toby and Sarg.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the team at Beacon of Hope Hospice for the compassionate care and support they provided during his last few days.
Funeral Services will be 11:00 A.M. Friday, September 19, 2025, at the Jones Funeral Chapel in Colchester. Burial will follow the services at Mt. Auburn Cemetery in Colchester. Visitation with the family will be 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. Thursday, September 18, 2025, at the Jones Funeral Chapel. Friends may view and sign the register book at the funeral home after 8:30 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. Thursday at the funeral home. Memorial is to the family to help with expenses. Condolences and memories can be expressed to the family at jonesmortuaryfh.com.
