Alfred Lloyd Roberts 93 of Schaumburg Illinois (Formerly of Tuckahoe NY) passed away at Bella Terra nursing facility on December 4, 2024 after a 2 year battle with interstitial lung disease.
Al was born on June 14, 1931 in Chicago, Illinois to Robert and Violet (Goddard) Roberts. He had 2 brothers, Russ and Ronald. He attended Lakeview High School in Chicago. He married Hope Peterson in 1951 and they had 2 children, Ava & Mark. Al’s talents were apparent while attending high school when he performed the Rachmaninoff 2nd Piano Concerto at such a young age. He later studied at Julliard where he furthered his passion for music. He was proud to have served in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict on the USS White Marsh LSD-8. There was always a piano on the ship to entertain his fellow sailors and officers as well.
Al spent over 60 years as a piano teacher where he taught children and adults of all abilities. Many of his students went on to attend prestigious music institutions. He was a member of the Pompton Valley Music Teacher Association since 1978 and served as President for 30 years. As a parting gift to PVMTA, he established the J.S. Bach Award program before retiring to Illinois. He always expressed his love of Bach and performed often at PVMTA meetings. He was a beloved member of the organization and an integral part of it’s growth over the years.
Al also had a passion for New York City. He loved the culture and museums. He attended many concerts and theater productions with his lifelong partner of 50 years, Bud Laurie. Together they experienced all the New York City had to offer. They often enjoyed a good glass of wine at Tavern on the Green or Top of the Sixes, and many times you could find them watching the ball come down on New Year's Eve right in Times Square.
Al made his health a priority. He would bike and hike all over, well into his 80’s. He studied Tai Chi and transcendental Meditation. You could still find him on a treadmill a few times a week in his early 90’s. He was also an avid reader. He loved science and history, but most of all he loved his family. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Al is survived by his daughter Ava, daughter in law Ann Roberts, grandchildren, Rachel Roberts, Dawn Hoffman, Brian Wallace and great grandchildren Madyson, Zane, Kaleb and Keegan Hoffman.