Joe Roberts was born in Watertown, South Dakota in 1927, and he moved to Milton in 1929 with his family. He lived with his family in the Milton House while he attended Milton schools. At age 18, Joe enlisted in the Navy and served three years in the South Pacific Islands on the USS George DE 697.
Joe was employed by Rock County in a variety of positions and held several leadership positions for local union organizations. In addition, Joe has been active since age 17 pitching for fast-pitch softball and he played with his ship’s softball team. He pitched for the 7up Rockets who went to the state tournament twice. Joe also played and managed the City of Janesville Volleyball and traveling teams.
Joe and his country band is a fixture at area celebrations and have donated their time for many performances at senior centers, health care facilities, and benefits for Veterans and retirement homes. He has also been active in promoting bluegrass music, hiring numerous bands from around the Midwest to perform locally for entertainment purposes.
In 1998, he started working with the high school students in the greenhouse program with Bob Johnson. Joe continues to help Nicole Reese with the greenhouse, tending plants, and helping the students plan and care for their projects.
In his limited spare time, Joe enjoys riding his horse, Rio. Joe started riding horseback in the Fourth of July Parade in 1937 on a borrowed pony.
Any organization is welcome to participate in the Fourth of July Parade. Registration forms are due by noon on June 17, 2011.
Registrations for horses need to include documentation of the current Coggins test in order to be eligible to participate in the parade. All motorized vehicles must be driven by a licensed driver, and a copy of their driver’s license is required with the registration form. Forms are available at Milton City Hall, 430 E. High Street, Suite 3 and on the City of Milton’s website (www.ci.milton.wi.us).
The Celebrate Milton Committee is looking for volunteers to help line up parade participants. If you are interested in helping, contact Inga Jacobson at 868-6900 ext. 4 or by e-mail at ijacobson@ci.milton.wi.us.
For additional information, please contact Jerry Schuetz at (608) 868-6900 ext. 4 or by e-mail at jschuetz@ci.milton.wi.us.
