Kenneth “John Man” Roberts, born on March 11, 1941, in Hoopa, to Eleanor Logan and Henry VanPelt. He passed away on November 15, 2023, surrounded by loved ones. He was a cherished member of the Yurok Tribe, leaving a mark on the community he called home.

A man of many talents and passions, John Man was known for his skills on the pool table and his love for teasing the kids in the community. He worked at various times as a truck driver, for the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), as a water truck driver for his uncle Ellis, for Fish and Game, and with NCIDC. His commitment extended to his roles on the UIHS Board of Directors, NCIDC Board of Directors and with the Yurok Tribal Council.

John Man began his journey in the Air Force right out of high school, where he not only served his country but also excelled as a golden glove boxer. Beyond his military service, he had a passion for working on cars, possessing the ability to decipher manuals to take apart and put cars back together, and if there were some extra screws he would not worry about where they belonged.

For two years, John Man lived in Siletz, Oregon where he quickly made friendships that made him feel like a lifelong resident.

He did not care if he was driving or riding or how long or short, he was always ready to go for a ride. He always liked driving his Gram and old Aunt Ollie all over to attend Indian Shaker Church.

John Man is preceded in death by his grandmother, Francis Roberts; mother, Eleanor Logan; father,  Henry VanPelt; stepfather, John Logan; nephew, Donald “Beanie” Kentta; brothers; Rafey Roberts, Joe Sorrell, Charles “Mike” Sorrell, and John “Buck” Logan; sister, Arlene Kentta; and nephew, William “Bum Bum” Logan.

He is survived by his ex-wife, Evelyn Roberts; daughter, Kella Bessette (Joey); grandchildren, Isaac Scott, Sarah Scott, and Carol McCovey; and great-granddaughter, Stella McCovey. His son, John “John Kan” Roberts (Witweat), and grandchildren, Basil Conrad, Julien and Pergish Salinas, and Eleanor Roberts. He is also survived by his aunt, Frances “Honeygirl” Snider; sisters, Darlene Magee and Lillie Butler (Reggie Sr.); and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers: Preston Ruiz, Dennis “DJ” Ruiz, Steven Osburne, Lil Shawn Logan, Chemooch Logan, Lil Buck Logan, Finley Logan, and Sly Logan.

Honorary Pallbearers: Louie Myers, Shawn Logan, John John Logan, Rafey Logan, Leo Canez, Reggie Butler Jr., and Lee Butler.

Services and a wake will be held at Johnson’s Indian Shaker Church. The wake is scheduled for Tuesday, November 21, 2023, with services on Wednesday, November 22, at 11 am, officiated by Rodney Vigil and Dr. George Blake. A potluck will follow the service.

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