Mike Brestel

John Roberts passed away peacefully March 1, 2013, in Williamsburg, Virginia. John was NMRA President from 2004 to 2006 and Vice President from 2000 to 2004. He was also Eastern District Director, 2009-2013; MCR President and Trustee, 1989-1993; and held other offices throughout the NMRA. He was a well-known model railroad author and builder of several highly regarded layouts in HO and O scale.

John contracted Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, a rare brain condition that causes a rapid decrease of mental function and movement and inevitable death. He first showed symptoms in early 2012. John is survived by his wife, Suzie, his children, John (Collette) and Whitney, and two granddaughters.

The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, memorial gifts be sent to the Diamond Club, National Model Railroad Association, Inc., 4121 Cromwell Rd., Chattanooga, TN 37421. Cards and letters may be sent to the family at 104 Heritage Pointe, Williamsburg, VA, 23188.