Jesse Roby, age 64 of Tracy, passed away unexpectedly Monday, May 18, 2020 at his home. Private family services were held at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, May 22. Visitation was held in small groups of 10 or less Thursday, May 21 at Tracy Area Funeral Home. The service was broadcast via Facebook Live on the Stephens Funeral Service Facebook page. Interment will be in the Willow Lake Cemetery. Facebook link may be found and online condolences may be sent at www.stephensfuneralservice.com. Stephens Funeral Service – Tracy Area Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Jesse Roby was born November 7, 1955 to Donald and Bonnie (Christenson) Roby in Cottonwood, Minnesota. He was baptized in Cottonwood and confirmed at Tracy Lutheran Church. Jesse attended Cottonwood public schools until 6th grade and continued his education at Tracy public school. He enlisted in the Army and was a radio tech from 1977-1979 at Fort Benning in Georgia. After his discharge, Jesse was a trucker for 42 years. On May 25, 2019, Jesse married Deb Stirn after being together, sharing laughter & love for more than 15 years. Jesse enjoyed working on his tractors, ‘68 Firebird and ‘96 Picker, both of which he rebuilt. He could fix any problem and if there wasn’t a tool to fix it he would make it. Jesse was a sweet man and very gentle. He enjoyed giving people nicknames and going on motorcycle trips with Deb. Jesse loved playing with his granddaughter and he loved his family dearly. He really enjoyed relaxing on the couch after a long day with Deb and watching old movies.
Jesse is survived by his loving wife Deb Roby of Tracy; children: Darren Thovson of St. Cloud and Gina (Mike Jacobsen) Ockenfels of Tracy; granddaughter Mira Hanson; siblings: Ronnie (Barb) Roby of Iowa Falls, IA and Doranne Roby of St. Paul; uncle Jerry (Jeanette) Roby; and many nieces & nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, sons Jeremy Thovson & Matthew John Roby, and brother David Roby.