Irene B. Roberts, 94, of Allentown, died Monday, January 12, 2015 in her home. She was the wife of the late Warren W. Roberts, who died in 2001. Born in Allentown, she was the daughter of Clarence and Minerva Backenstoe. A 1940 graduate of Allentown High School, she and her husband owned a neighborhood corner store on Hanover Avenue. She later worked for Rodale at its test kitchen in Emmaus. Irene was a Girl Scout troop leader, and president of the Ladies Aid Society at Jerusalem Western Salisbury Church, where she was a lifelong member. She was a sweet and generous woman who was always willing to help others. She enjoyed gardening, especially working endlessly on her rock wall. Baking cookies, collecting recipes, and trying new dishes kept her busy and happy. The highlight of her summer was the family vacations at Stone Harbor, NJ. She always looked forward to visits from her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Survivors: Daughter, Annette J. Heffelfinger, wife of Harry, of Kutztown; Son, Clark L. Roberts, husband of JoAnne, of Emmaus; Sisters, Dorothy B. Roth of Emmaus, Frances M. Cole of Washington, NJ, and Esther L. Schiavone of Breinigsville; Sister-in-Law, Ronnie I. Backenstoe of Wernersville; Grandchildren, Julie Willis of Allentown, Derek Willis, husband of Leslye, of Silver Spring, MD, Shane Roberts of Allentown, and Quinn Roberts of Gloucester Point, VA; Great Grandchildren, Carolyne Willis and Logan Brown; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her Brother, Warren B. Backenstoe of Wernersville, and her Sister, Pauline I. Fenstermaker of Allentown. Services: Funeral Service Wednesday, February 4, 2015 at 11:00 AM in Jerusalem Western Salisbury Church, 3441 Devonshire Road, Allentown. Viewing 9:00 to 11:00 AM in the church. Interment will follow in Western Salisbury Cemetery. Schantz Funeral Home, P.C., Emmaus is handling arrangements. Online condolences may be made at schantzfh.com. Contributions: In lieu of flowers contribution may be made to Jerusalem Western Salisbury Church, 3441 Devonshire Road, Allentown, PA 18103.
