[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 197 (Friday, November 21, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1117-E1118]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO DUANE R. ROBERTS

                                  _____
                                 

                            HON. KEN CALVERT

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 21, 2025

  Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to my 
good friend, a visionary entrepreneur, civic leader, and 
philanthropist, Duane Roberts, who passed away on Saturday, November 1, 
2025. Duane was a dedicated leader in Riverside County, and he will be 
deeply missed.
  Duane was born and raised in Riverside, California. His parents, 
Harry and Mary Roberts, instilled in him the values of hard work and 
generosity. Duane graduated from Riverside Polytechnic High School, 
where he competed on the swim team and participated in the ROTC. He 
ultimately joined the family business--meat provider Butcher Boy--after 
high school, in addition to serving his country in the Army National 
Guard. Duane keenly identified an economic opportunity and seized on it 
by developing the frozen burrito. After surging into popularity, the 
frozen burrito propelled Butcher Boy Food Products into the world's 
largest frozen Mexican food manufacturer before the company was sold by 
Duane.
  In 1992, Duane launched himself into a challenge that has forever 
changed downtown Riverside. By acquiring the Historic Mission Inn, he 
took on a rescue and restoration project of epic proportions. Duane's 
vision and determination have transformed the Mission Inn into a jewel 
and world-renowned destination that has hosted presidents, dignitaries, 
and guests from across the world. Together with his wife, Kelly, the 
Roberts established the Historic Mission Inn Hotel & Spa's Festival of 
Lights, which has become one of the most cherished holiday season 
traditions in the region.
  Duane, a lifelong philanthropist, established the Mary S. Roberts 
Foundation in honor of his mother, supporting children and families in

[[Page E1118]]

need, victims of crime, the hungry and homeless, and the care and 
protection of animals. He also supported numerous organizations, 
including Olive Crest, UC Riverside, Riverside City College, and 
Pepperdine University, where he and Kelly endowed the position of Dean 
of the School of Law. To support conservative causes and campaigns in 
Riverside County, Duane and I worked together to establish the Lincoln 
Club of Riverside County.
  Duane is survived by his wife, Kelly Roberts; his stepchildren, Casey 
Brown and Doug Reinhardt; his grandchildren; and countless friends and 
colleagues. He was predeceased by his sons Duane, Jr. and Darrell. I 
extend my personal and heartfelt condolences to the Roberts family, his 
friends, and everyone fortunate enough to know Duane. Although he may 
be gone, the many contributions he made to our community have left an 
enduring legacy.

                          ____________________