Rhea Dawn Roberts, age 70, passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a family who loved her deeply and will miss her more than words can express.

Rhea Dawn Roberts, born November 11, 1955, in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, passed peacefully surrounded by her loving husband and children. In those tender, tearful moments, filled with love for one another and for her, she was not alone as she gently flew home to heaven.

Rhea was one of four siblings: William Fred Riffel, Billy Riffel, and Tina Riffel.

She graduated from Grand Junction High School in 1974 and built a life rooted in love, service, and compassion. Though only 4 feet 11 inches tall, Rhea was a mighty presence strong, resilient, and full of heart.

For many years, she was a familiar and cherished face as a server in Grand Junction, where her warmth and kindness left lasting impressions on countless people.

Later in life, she followed her calling as a caregiver, tending to others in their most vulnerable moments. Rhea had the heart of an angel; she never wanted anyone to be in pain or to struggle, and she gave her love freely and selflessly.

Rhea was a devoted wife, daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother. She is survived by her loving husband, Ronnie Claypool; her children, Micheal Ryan Roberts and his wife Debra, Elicha Dawn Roberts, Tyler Willis Claypool and his wife Shawna, and Tim David Claypool; and her beloved grandchildren: Isaiah Moncibais, Max Rodriguez, Breanna M. Roberts, Tristan Gallagher, Carissa Gallagher, Trenton Wall, Aurora Dawn Claypool, and Melody Claypool.

She was preceded in death by her mother, June Riffel, her father William Riffel, her first born son, Christopher Lee Roberts, her first grandchild Gabriel Roberts.

She shared a beautiful love story with her husband, Ronnie Claypool. Together for over 40 years, they weathered life’s ups and downs side by side, loving each other fully until her final day. They were truly two peas in a pod, and their bond was one many admired.

Her love for her family was unwavering, and she taught them how to love unconditionally.

She also leaves behind her dear and beloved friends, who meant so much to her. Getting to know her through these friendships has been a beautiful and meaningful gift, revealing parts of her life and joy that her family didn’t always get to see. She treasured those connections deeply.

She found joy in life’s simple moments like resting when she could, baking a cake at a moment’s notice, and caring deeply for her family. Her love with Ronnie was one of true devotion, as they took care of one another through every season of life, always standing side by side. He cared for her with the same tenderness and dedication that she gave so freely to others.

She loved the ocean and the peace it brought her, especially walking along the shoreline and collecting seashells. She adored Mickey Mouse, loved to read, and found comfort in painting by numbers on her iPad. These quiet joys reflected her gentle spirit and her appreciation for life’s simple blessings. She wasn’t wealthy in material things, but she was rich in love, generosity, and heart.

Rhea’s life was one of love, service, and connection. She gave endlessly of herself and leaves behind a legacy of compassion, strength, and deep, unconditional love.

We love you, Mom. Thank you for everything you loved us through it all and taught us how to love unconditionally, no matter what.

“What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes part of us.”