Tribute to Dave Roberts who died last month

 

* Dave in 1969 when he was 21.

A well-known figure in Llangollen, David Ian Roberts, known to many as Dave, passed away peacefully at Wrexham Maelor Hospital on November 29, aged 75. 

He succumbed to complications arising from a kidney infection and diabetes.

Born on December 5, 1948 in Wrexham, Dave attended Grove Park Grammar School for Boys before pursuing higher education at Birmingham University, where he earned a degree in French. 

As part of his studies, he spent a transformative year at Toulouse University, developing a deep appreciation for French culture and language. Although Dave initially planned to become a teacher and attended Alsager teacher training college, he discovered that teaching was not his calling.

Dave's life took an exciting turn when he moved to London, where he worked as a researcher at the Royal Air Force Museum in Hendon. This role allowed him to explore his lifelong interest in aviation. 

* Dave with his beloved dog Gus.

On returning to Wrexham, he took up a creative role with David Winter Cottages, repairing and painting intricate cottage ornaments. It was during this time that his talent for painting scenery came to the fore, and he began working with Grove Park Theatre in Wrexham.

In 2005, Dave moved to Llangollen, where he became an active member of the local community. He joined the Twenty Club drama group, continuing his passion for detailed scene painting for theatrical productions. 

Dave was also a gifted photographer, often seen with his beloved dog, Gus, capturing the beauty of Llangollen town, and the surrounding areas. His love for music saw him photographing live bands at The Sun and serving as the resident photographer for the Twenty Club, where his work was cherished.

Dave's artistic talents, warm presence, and kind-hearted nature endeared him to all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his brother Peter and his many friends in Llangollen, Wrexham, and beyond.

A celebration of Dave’s life will be held in Llangollen, where his love for art, photography, and music will be remembered. The date and time will be posted during the coming days.

His family and friends say they take comfort in the joy and creativity he shared with the world.