Billy Dean Robeson

Billy Dean Robeson, 88, passed away Oct. 11, 2017 in Keller, Texas, after living a life full of love for his family, his country and, above all, his wife of nearly 70 years.

Billy was born on March 20, 1929 in Tama, Iowa to Graydon and Mildred (Smith) Robeson. He graduated from Tama High School, where he was named all-state football his junior and senior years. He attended Iowa State University and Simpson College.

Billy enlisted with the Army in 1952, serving honorably with the Military Intelligence Division during the Korean War. He also served on active reserve from 1954 to 1959. He spent 37 years in the tire manufacturing industry, first working for Firestone and Mohawk, then spending the majority of his career with Uniroyal Goodrich Tire Company, now Michelin. He retired in 1991 as plant manager for the BFGoodrich plant in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

In 1948 he married Betty (Conrad) Robeson, the love of his life. They had two daughters, Susan (Robeson) Netter and Sharon (Robeson) Castille. For decades, they remained the same sweethearts who fell in love as young teenagers, enjoying vacations on the beach and a memorable cruise to Alaska.

Billy remained devoted to veterans causes throughout his life. He could be found every Sunday watching his beloved football teams, the Green Bay Packers and the Dallas Cowboys. He was also fond of flying and earned his private pilot’s license in the 70s. Billy had a love of animals and never met a dog he didn’t love, including one of his favorites, Snoopy.

In addition to his wife and daughters, Billy Robeson is survived by his granddaughter, Sarah Netter and great-grandson, Calvin; his son-in-law, Larry Castille; his step-granddaughter Desiree Young and her husband Dan Young; four nieces and three nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, Warren Robeson, and his son-in-law, Craig Netter.

Billy Robeson will be buried in a private ceremony with military honors. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to the Bob Woodruff Foundation, which improves the lives of veterans and their families.