In his 22 years directing the UA's finances, Richard "Dick" Roberts guided a budget that increased in size and complexity.
But he was always noted for the clear explanations he offered to administrators, students and the public.
Roberts, assistant vice president and budget director at the UA, died suddenly while hiking with friends Sunday morning, officials said. He was 61. More information on his death was unavailable Monday.
Recruited from Washington State University in 1985, Roberts was at the helm as the UA's budget expanded from $400 million to $1.7 billion.
George Cunningham, the UA's former vice president for administrative services who hired Roberts, said Roberts' value was well understood by each of the four UA presidents he worked under.
"He loved his work. He worked long hours, he was always upbeat and he had this straightforward style," said a written statement from Cunningham, now deputy chief of staff for finance and budget for Gov. Janet Napolitano.
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UA President Robert Shelton and Senior Vice President for Business Affairs Joel D. Valdez announced Roberts' death to the campus community in a joint statement Monday.
"Through his entire 22-year tenure at the University of Arizona, Dick did a simply superb job of guiding the university's budget. He was highly respected throughout the higher education community and by those in state government. The University of Arizona benefited enormously from his knowledge, insight and determination."
Gilbert Davidson, the UA's student body president in 1997-1998, said Roberts was like a favorite uncle.
"As a student involved with campus issues, I could always count on Dick giving honest advice, sincere feedback, creative ideas, a joke, a story and time," Davidson said in a written statement. "He always took the time to talk, debate, learn and grow from students."
Roberts is survived by his wife, Jean, and two sons, Chad and Scott.
Services are pending.
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