Charles C. Roberts was born on September 13, 1924, in Marion, Ohio. He married Mary E. Roberts on August 19, 1950. Charlie graduated from Marion Harding High School in 1942 and served in the U.S. Navy. He received a bachelor's degree from DePauw University and his master's degree in business administration from Northwestern University. Charlie worked for Inland Steel in Chicago before joining the DeKalb Ag in 1954. He retired 40 years later. He was a member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in DeKalb and served his community in many ways.

Mary E. Roberts was born on November 9, 1926, in San Diego, California. She graduated from Sycamore High School in 1944 and received her bachelor's degree from DePauw University. Mary worked in Chicago before marrying Charlie, and after marriage, they lived in Evanston and Glenview before moving to DeKalb in 1954. She was a longtime member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in DeKalb and served her community in many ways.

Charlie and Mary loved the people of DeKalb County and began giving back through their time, talent, treasure, and ties. Through this spirit of community philanthropy, the Roberts created the DeKalb County Community Foundation in 1993. The Community Foundation works with donors to enhance the quality of life in DeKalb County. From their initial $3.6 million gift, the Foundation has grown to more than $60 million in total assets and has distributed more than $42 million to community organizations.

Charles C. Roberts passed away on Sunday, May 8, 2005. Mary E. Roberts passed away on Tuesday, October 28, 2008. The DeKalb County Community Endowment Fund was the very first Fund established at the Foundation. It continues to provide for the needs and opportunities of the community and honors the lasting legacy of Charlie and Mary Roberts.