UPS Worker Killed Just Days Before Retirement

A longtime UPS worker who spent more than four decades on the job was tragically killed at a Missouri facility just 13 days before he was finally set to retire.

Paul Roberts, 63, of St. Charles, was fatally struck by a vehicle Friday, Sept. 4, at a UPS facility in Earth City, according to the St. Louis County Police Department.

Roberts had worked for UPS for an incredible 44 years and was less than two weeks away from beginning the retirement he had spent decades working toward.

“He loved his job. Thirteen days from retiring, and he won’t get to do it,” his sister, Donna Schraer, told KSDK. “It’s sad he’s not gonna get to celebrate.”

The deadly incident happened in the 3800 block of Rider Trail North, where Roberts was struck by a vehicle at the UPS Customer Care Center.

Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene.

Police said the driver involved remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators as authorities work to determine exactly what happened. No criminal charges have been announced.

For Roberts’ family, the sudden loss is especially devastating because he had recently reached another major milestone in his life.

Just six months before his death, Roberts married his longtime love after the couple had been together for 37 years.

“I hate just being shocked that this is all going on right now,” Schraer said.

She said her brother had an impact on countless people during his life.

“He definitely touched the world. He touched a lot of people.”

UPS acknowledged the tragedy in a statement following Roberts’ death.

“We’re aware of a tragic situation in Earth City. Our heartfelt thoughts are with those involved and their family,” a company spokesperson said, referring additional questions to authorities.

UPS representative Jim Mayer also told KSDK that the delivery giant remains focused on worker safety.

“We train our people to prevent accidents and injuries and teach them how to stay healthy and safe,” Mayer said.

According to Mayer, UPS has invested more than $2 billion and 35 million hours into safety training over the past five years.

The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Roberts’ death remains ongoing.

Roberts leaves behind his wife, children and grandchildren, along with other relatives, friends and colleagues who spent decades working alongside him.

Instead of celebrating the start of retirement after 44 years of work, his family is now preparing to say goodbye.