David Leon Roberts – February 13, 1949 – December 27, 2025

David Leon Roberts, affectionately known as Dave passed away on December 27, 2025, in Las Animas,
Colorado, at the age of 76. He was born on February 13, 1949, in Lamar, Colorado, to Marion “Bud” and
Margaret (Hayes) Roberts.

Dave spent his formative years in La Junta, where his exceptional talents in basketball, football, and
track earned him All-State recognition, showcasing his athletic ability and determination from a young
age. In his early adulthood, Dave embarked on a journey of service, dedicating much of his life to law
enforcement. He began his career in the Air Force before serving in various capacities with the La Junta
Police Department and Otero County Sheriff’s Office. His notable career included 11 years with the
Pueblo Police Department, followed by 22 years with the Colorado Department of Corrections, where he
made significant contributions to community safety and justice. Additionally, Dave held the position of
Bent County Coroner for 18 years and was former member of the Bent County Fire and Ambulance
Board, reflecting his commitment to serving others.

Dave’s heart was equally devoted to his family. He was united in marriage to Cheryl Munger, with whom
he shared two children, Mike and Stephanie. Although that chapter ended in divorce, Dave’s capacity to
love remained steadfast. On February 23, 1992, he married Janell Culbertson, creating a blended family
that brought joy and unity into their lives.

Dave found immense joy in simple pleasures. He and Janell would frequently be seen traveling on
various camping excursions or camping at their preferred location at John Martin Reservoir. Camping
brought Dave profound peace and contentment. Cooking was another of his passions, bringing loved
ones together around the table, creating not just meals but cherished memories. Dave never missed a
chance to cheer on his Broncos, showcasing his unwavering loyalty to his team. He was a man of few
words but his actions spoke volumes of his deep compassion. To the outside world, Dave could seem
formidable, but to those that knew Dave, saw a heart of compassion and kindness.

Dave is survived by his loving wife, Janell Roberts of Las Animas, Colorado; children, Mike (Sandi)
Roberts of Beaverton, Oregon; Stephanie (Jeff) Fox of Colorado Springs, Colorado; Corey (Kristie)
Culbertson of Rockwall, Texas; and Kaye Keller of Ashland, Pennsylvania; 10 grandchildren, 2 great-
grandchildren; siblings, Steve (Nadine) Roberts of La Junta, Colorado, Debbie (Steve) Norris of La Junta,
Colorado, Carol Leach of Hayward, California, and Larry Roberts; many other relatives and a host of
friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Charles Roberts and Gary Roberts, as well as his
sister, Margaret “Peggy” Enloe.

A Memorial Service for Dave Roberts will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, January 17, 2025 at Wesleyan
Fellowship Church in Las Animas, Colorado with Pastor Rod Coulter officiating. Those in attendance are
encouraged to wear Bronco attire.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital,
501 St Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or in care of Valley Funeral & Cremation, P.O. Box 431, Las
Animas, Colorado 81052. To leave online condolences, please visit www.valleyfuneralcremation.com.