Dave Roberts Obituary

Roberts, Dave

Legendary Chicago DJ, Dave Roberts passed away on Monday, February 6th 2023 at the age of 64.

Well known for his club night "Planet Earth" Dave served Chicago's underground nightlife for almost four decades.

The son of a Methodist minister (The late Rev. William Roberts) he grew up in the parsonage of The Church of Three Crosses in Chicago's Old Town neighborhood.

He had an early career creating visuals for Chicago advertising agencies, but it was the nightlife that became his vocation. Dave was a resident DJ at many of Chicago's iconic nightclubs including The original Exit on Wells Street, Club 950, Neo, Kaboom, Smart Bar, Holiday Club, and many more. He was the co-creator of Late Bar in Chicago's Avondale neighborhood which opened in 2009.

Surviving are his two loving sisters Lynn and Sally, his brothers Bill, Tim, and John, and the extended Roberts family. His younger brother Jeff, who worked for the NSA before becoming a Methodist minister like his father, died in 2021. His mother, Betty died in 2016. He has also left behind his loving partner and companion of 30 years, Kristine Hengl.

A private family memorial will be held in Evanston where he will be interred. A public memorial for his huge community of friends and fans will be announced on the Late Bar social media channels.

Many thanks to the team at Swedish Hospital and Alden Rehabilitation Center for the care and kindness that was shown to Dave.

Deepest thanks to Anthony and Abdul Qaiyum and the team at Merz Apothecary for their loving support of Kristine as she cared for Dave the last six weeks of his life.

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Published by Chicago Sun-Times from Feb. 11 to Feb. 12, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Dave Roberts

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11 Entries

Mary Anne Tom

November 11, 2023

Wow. I somehow missed the news about Dave's passing. I am Marlana Carlson's sister, but I live on the East Coast. I try to go with her to the Late Bar, and there have been fewer visits since Covid, etc. Neo used to be the highlight of my visits, and then LB.

Dave was always a great host, and I remember Christine, as well, always being around. They always did a great job of running the place. I'm sure things will never be the same without Dave, who always played fun and varied sets. The video wall always added to the experience.

My deepest condolences to Christine and to the Roberts family! Dave will forever be missed!

Joe Garza

February 26, 2023

Awww Dave old friend, who am I gonna talk Beatles with now?

Zach

February 12, 2023

Thank you Dave for music that profoundly changed my life. We never really got a chance to know each other or talk, but at the same time didn't need to with words. I feel I knew you well just through the connection you made with us on the dance floor with your timeless selections and brilliant videos. I've seen countless DJs in my life and none left the impression and inspiration you have. I will never forget it. Love u Dave, thank you.

Anthony Vais

February 12, 2023

A really kind, caring, and great human who shared his love of music as an icon. Not only will the city miss him, but his greatness was even known in Europe. A sad day. Such a good person.

Leslie Ritter-Jenkins

February 11, 2023

We will lift up Dave in church tomorrow at Church of the Three Crosses and remember and celebrate Dave's life. We share our condolences with Kristine and Dave's siblings. - Leslie Ritter-Jenkins, Interim Pastor

Michael& Marilyn Desjardins

February 11, 2023

Thank you Dave for all the great music and dancing at LateBar. Heaven needed an alternative DJ. God bless you

Frank Gardner

February 11, 2023

Toasting you with an Old Crow, Peace"cousin".
Frank Gardner

Justine

February 10, 2023

Goodnight Dave! You fo have to go home cuz you couldn't stay here. Wish you stayed. You are missed by so many. Cheers and R.I.P.

Patricia Tanquary

February 10, 2023

Thank you Dave for all the memories you shared with us since 1981. When I look up at the booth next time I´m at late bar I´ll be shedding a tear knowing you knew what each and everyone who came to late bar wanted to hear. you will never be forgotten RIP!

Edward B.

February 10, 2023

Many years age Dave let me spin some records at the long gone Club 950. Truly a kind hearted soul and a staple of the Chicago Alternative scene. You will be missed. -Edward B.

Servando "STYK" Salas

February 9, 2023

Dave was a beacon to many celebrating and enjoying life. Thank you Dave for all of the good times and memories you gave us.

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