Ronald L. Robertson

Well-known child advocate, Ronald L. Robertson, passed away July 29, 2012. Ron was born on January 13, 1948, in DeRidder, Louisiana. He graduated from Lamar University with a Bachelor of Arts degree, he served on the board of directors of Five Point Credit Union and a member of the Sertoma Club and Grace Community Church in Fannett. After serving with the police department in Alexandria, Louisiana, he moved to Port Arthur, Texas, and began his lifelong career of serving the people of Southeast Texas. He was an honorable man of integrity in every aspect of his life. As a police officer, detective, and Child Protective Service investigator, he worked amidst people of all ilk who had often made life-altering decisions for themselves and others. Ron was blessed with an innate temperament which enabled him to be an expert hostage negotiator, and he was often involved in suicide intervention. In the early 1990's Ron saw the opportunity to help underprivileged children in the area. He and a friend began the People for People program to provide basic necessities for needy children from all walks of life. They eventually procured a barge for their big Christmas toy give-away. The foster children were loaded on a brightly-lit barge for a joyous night. They were given food and presents from Santa Claus, aka Ron. This holiday celebration led to an even larger annual event held at the airport for foster parents/children. At this huge affair, the children created life-long memories. Eventually because of the growth and popularity of the program, the Sertoma/LaSertoma Service Organizations became the overseers to continue this wonderful, philanthropic event. Ron served in Sertoma in all capacities, staying active every week to promote service projects for the benefit of others. He was recognized with awards for his service to mankind. Ron's genuine faith in God was a hallmark of his life. He felt called to work in law enforcement and minister through public service. In the early 1980's, Ron brought McGruff the crime dog to Port Arthur. As McGruff entertained countless children at schools, orphanages, large community events, he also taught them to beware of danger. Ron's girls call him the original super-hero. Because others felt his unconditional acceptance, they enjoyed his presence. While he was trained in keen observation and listening skills, Ron genuinely cared and felt compassion for people. His desire to help others went beyond words as evidenced by his reputation as an honorable, generous man who opened his heart and hand to all who were in need. He had a great sense of humor and embraced lifeenjoying the good times and enduring the bad with strength and sensitivity. Close friends of Ron laughed at his 'corny' jokes, were called 'Buddy', or heard an impersonation of Elvis Presley crooning "Happy Birthday," on their special day. Others knew him as an avid competitor who was the #13 all-star baseball player. As he leaves this earth to begin his life in eternity, we celebrate the blessings of being a part of the joy, fun, laughter, and adventure of loving one of God's finest men to ever live. Ron is survived by his wife, Madeline Alford; daughters, Angella and husband Joe Collins of Daphne, Alabama, and Rebecca Morrison of Houston; granddaughters, Madison, Makayla, Chloe and Marissa; nephew David Robertson. He also leaves behind step-sons Michael and Marty Hatton, step-granddaughter Olivia Hatton and three 'favorite' sisters-in-law Linda, Jeannette, and Sharon. A visitation for family and friends will begin at 4:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 31, 2012 at Grace Community Church, 22044 Burrell Wingate Road in Fannett, the funeral service will follow at 7:00 p.m. with Reverends Mike Parise and Dean Crisse officiating. A private graveside will be in Greenlawn Memorial Park under the direction of Levingston Funeral Home in Groves. The family is thankful to Dr. George Zuzukin, Dr. Rudy Sotolongo, and Dr. Ed Collins. Pallbearers will be Rodney Harrison, Loddie Valka, Kent Walston, Tommy Savoy, Charles Louwerse, and Glenn Johnson. Because sister-in-law Sharon Carter lovingly gave her kidney to prolong Ron's life, the family has requested that in lieu of flowers contributions be made to Donate Life at 5489 Blair Road, Dallas, TX 75231 or to Grace Community Church at 22044 Burrell Wingate in Fannett, TX 77705. We believe that all the ties of friendship and affection which knit us as one throughout our lives do not unravel with death.