Robert McKay was a man with a wide variety of interests, from roller skating to HAM radio operating to lending a helping hand around the neighborhood.

In 1952, he ranked first in Indiana in freestyle roller skating. It was a hobby he continued until he was in his 70s, when health issues forced him to hang up his skates.

"He loved roller skating, and he loved teaching others to roller skate," said his wife of 58 years, Millie. "At one point, he broke his leg practicing for nationals. But three months later, he was skating again."

Robert William McKay I, 81, of Portage, died June 4. He was retired from RCA/General Electric and was an Army veteran.

Millie McKay said her husband loved being a HAM radio operator, loved photography and loved ballroom dancing. As a couple, they loved to go hiking at Dunes State Park, often taking their grandchildren with them.

Later in life, he became active in the Bonner Senior Center. He liked to play Bunco, Bingo and shoot pool.

"He loved being around people," she said.

He had worked as a TV repairman for RCA/General Electric, and often spent his free time helping people who couldn't pay to have their television sets repaired.

"He would find a TV, repair it, and give it to someone who needed it. He'd even go put an antenna on the roof," she said. "He was always good to everyone."

He often asked family members and neighbors if they needed any work done around the house or the yard. He loved having little projects to do, she said.

"He was always there to help," she said. "Now, family and neighbors are coming over to help me and see how they can help us."