Roberta Menacher Nicosia

Roberta Menacher Nicosia passed away on August 13, 2026, after a courageous battle with leukemia. Born in Daggett, Michigan, and raised in nearby Stephenson, she was the daughter of Francis and Marjorie (Voelker) Menacher.  

Roberta earned her B.S. from Northern Michigan University and M.A. from Webster University. She began her career in Chicago in the insurance industry, working in both sales and human resources administration. After becoming a mother, she moved to Arlington Heights, Illinois, which was home for many years.  

Giving back to her community was an important part of Roberta’s life. For 25 years, she taught with Read to Learn, also serving as a Cub Scout leader and CCD teacher. She was a board member for St. Cecilia’s Church, the Surrey Ridge Homeowners Association, and the Surrey Ridge Condominium Association. She was also deeply engaged in civic life, graduating from the local police department’s Citizens Police Academy and working on election campaigns for many candidates. Throughout her life, she was a strong advocate for human rights and social justice.

Roberta deeply enjoyed the outdoors, particularly hiking, biking, and camping. She was an avid and adventurous traveler, visiting all 50 states and 65 countries. She encouraged everyone to see the world, learn from other cultures, and remain open to ways of life different from their own.    

Roberta is survived by her son, Anthony (Tony) Nicosia; her siblings, Maxine (Tony) Witkus, Marie (Jim) Hernigle and Tom (Wendy) Menacher; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her sister, Carol.

Arrangements by Journey Cremations in Arlington Heights, Illinois.