Jesse M. Robertson, born June 24, 1935, passed away peacefully at his home in Springfield, Missouri on Friday, April 9, 2021. He was 85 years old.

Jesse was born in Phelps County, Missouri and was the only child of Geneva and Woodrow Robertson. Jesse graduated from Richland High School in 1953. After high school, he attended Kemper Military Academy for a short period of time before enlisting in the United States Army. Jesse was stationed in Germany for most of his time in the service and was honorably discharged from the military in 1956.

Following his discharge, Jesse returned to Missouri where he took up residency in Springfield and enrolled as a student at Missouri State University. At Missouri State, Jesse received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education in 1965 and, thereafter, continued his education, achieving a Master of Arts Degree in History in 1968. After graduation, Jesse remained a resident of Springfield for the remainder of his life.

Jesse spent the majority of his career as a history teacher at Hillcrest High School. While at Hillcrest, he also taught history classes at Drury University for several semesters as an adjunct professor. At Hillcrest, Jesse was active in student athletics and served for a number of years as coach of the boys’ and girls’ swim teams where he elevated the sport and broke several school records. Jesse strived to inspire and motivate his students and swimmers, some of whom he maintained contact with until his death.

After 25 years at Hillcrest, Jesse left the teaching profession to take on a new challenge with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Jesse worked for the Corps as a park ranger in Branson for approximately 11 years before his retirement in 2003. Jesse was fond of his time as a ranger with the Corps because it afforded him new experiences and exposure to nature which he always cherished.

It was not long after Jesse’s move to Springfield in 1956, following his military service, that he would meet Mary, his dear wife of 62 years. Jesse and Mary were married in 1958, and would go on to raise two daughters and a son. Over the ensuing years, the family would expand as Jesse and Mary were blessed with seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Jesse took great pride in his role as the elder patriarch of the family and delighted in family get-togethers for holidays and special occasions.

Jesse liked spending time outdoors and took much pleasure in the simple things that life had to offer. He arranged many family camping trips over the years and seemed most content when gazing upon nature whether it be the surrounding lakes, woods, or even the front yard from his chair on the porch. He had an affinity for family pets, especially dogs, who in turn had an affinity for him.

Jesse was a beloved husband and father, and an amazing “Papa” to his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He could not have been loved more deeply by his family and the void he has left is immeasurable. Those around him were enriched by his devotion, wit, and generosity and can take comfort in their memories and the times they shared with him.

Jesse is survived by his wife of 62 years, Mary; daughter Lynne Lock (husband Mike); daughter Lorri Haldiman (husband Mike); son Joe Robertson (wife Gayle); seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and his dog, Sophie.

There will not be a formal memorial service for Jesse but his life will be celebrated at a private family service which is what he desired. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the CoxHealth Foundation, Hospice.