ISBA Laureate Keith E. Roberts Sr., 85, passed away on March 15, 2014.  An ardent though frustrated Cubs fan, and a trial lawyer who gave generously of his time and talents to train other lawyers in the fine art of gentlemanly advocacy in the courtroom. Recipient of the Laureate award from the ISBA Academy of Illinois Lawyers in 2004. The tribute from his induction is below.

Beloved husband of the late Marthan Roberts (nee Dusch); loving father of Chuck (Linda) Roberts; dear grandfather of Beth, Rick and Sara.

Visitation Thursday, March 20, from 3:30 to 8 p.m. at Williams-Kampp Funeral Home, 430 E. Roosevelt Road (one block east of Naperville Road), Wheaton. Funeral Service Friday, March 21, 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment private. Information at www.williams-kampp.com or 630-668-0016. In lieu of flowers, donations appreciated to DuPage County Bar Foundation.

Keith E. Roberts, Sr.

Keith Roberts Sr., a 1953 graduate of the University of Illinois College of Law, is Of Counsel to Roberts & Associates. Born in 1928 in White Hall, Roberts was the son of a Baptist minister who had to move the family every four years. By the time he was in fourth grade, he knew he wanted to be a trial attorney.

"Keith Roberts embodies all the qualities that lawyers ought to have. He is Atticus Finch incarnate," said 18th Circuit Judge Robert Anderson, one of his nominators. "He is generous beyond comparison with his time and his talent, and he is the man who always does the right thing all of the time."

"Anyone who has had the opportunity to work alongside him, or try a case against him, walked away from the exchange a better lawyer and a better person."

"Keith is a legend in the county and has left a legacy with the legal aid program." "Roberts is the kind of person one meets and never forgets." "He seems to do everything with ease." "He has a commanding presence, is well received by the community and is an exemplary role model, both in and out of the courtroom, for young lawyers to aspire to. His magic is preparation, modesty, and civility."

More than just an accomplished lawyer, "this man has devoted his life to knowing and loving the law and, above all, teaching other lawyers and judges to do the same."

Keith's reputation for honesty, preparedness and genuine concern for clients was the standard by which lawyers should be measured. Many young lawyers have improved their craft by watching Keith as a role model in the courtroom and the community.

He has zealously and diligently represented his clients' interests but always within the bounds of civility, integrity and high ethical standards.