Frederick E Roberts

Frederick E. Roberts, of Wellesley Hills, MA, retired Colonel of the Massachusetts Army National Guard and a devoted husband, father, grandfather, dentist, and veteran, passed away peacefully on January 24, 2026.

Born to the late Daniel and Clara Roberts, Fred lived a life defined by service—to his country, his patients, and his family. He proudly joined the United States Army in 1964, serving during the Vietnam War with deployments in France and Germany. He later continued his military career in Massachusetts, spending 15 years in the Army Reserves at Otis Air Force Base, before joining the Massachusetts Army National Guard, where he served from 1981 to 1999, retiring with the rank of Colonel. Fred was also a proud Desert Storm veteran.

Never one to step away from service, Fred volunteered from 2003 to 2019 as a Special Coast Guard Officer in Boston, Massachusetts, where he performed medical intake for military personnel prior to deployment.

Fred earned his undergraduate degree from the University of New Hampshire and went on to graduate from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. From 1968 to 1970, he also served as an instructor at Tufts Dental School, reflecting his commitment to education and mentoring future dental professionals. He practiced dentistry for many years and owned successful dental practices in Charlestown, Brookline, and Danvers, Massachusetts, where he was widely respected for both his clinical skill and compassionate care.

Sports, fitness, and community were central to Fred’s life. He was an avid swimmer, swimming at least one mile every day at his neighborhood club Wightman Tennis Center, where he was affectionately known as “Fred the Fish.” The club was also a special place where he enjoyed watching his family play tennis. A devoted Boston sports fan, Fred shared this passion with his family, bonding over games, rivalries, and unforgettable moments with his son and grandsons. His love of sports extended into his professional life as well—during the 1970s and 1980s, he had the honor of treating many of Boston’s star athletes, including members of the Bruins, Red Sox, and the historic 1980 U.S. Olympic Hockey Team that won the gold medal.

Above all, Fred was a family man. He was the beloved husband of Doris Roberts whom he adored. He leaves behind his son Ken Roberts (and Debra), his daughter Stacey Roberts, and his cherished grandchildren Michael Philipkosky, Andrew Roberts, Lola Philipkosky, and Marie Roberts, all of whom lovingly knew him as “Popsy.” He is also survived by his brother, Stanley Roberts.

Funeral and memorial services will be held privately for family only at Sharon Memorial Park Cemetery on Friday, January 30, 2026 at 12:45pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Fred’s memory to the Wounded Warrior Project (woundedwarriorproject.org).

Fred will be remembered for his unwavering dedication, quiet strength, and deep love for his family. His legacy of service, discipline, and kindness will live on in all who knew him.