In the days before robotic cameras, we had real, live people out in the studio with us when we did the news. Four camera-operators and a floor director shared the shows with us. Whenever it was vacation time for the regulars behind the cameras, we would have the opportunity to catch up with folks, "vacation relief," we didn't see often enough. One of those people was a wonderful woman named Lynne Roberts.

Lynne was always cheerful and upbeat, whether she was coming in for FirstNews or covering the late telecasts. I had some terrific conversations with her over the years about everything from music to travel to current events. But, her favorite topic was YOU. She always wanted to know what was new in your life. When the holiday season would roll around, Lynne's favorite soiree was the KMBC Childrens' Party. Lynne and her husband, our assistant news director, Gerry, would be there every year just taking it all in and enjoying the antics of all the Channel 9 sons and daughters. Nobody had a brighter smile at the party...or any other time, for that matter...than Lynne.

In the last several years, Lynne faced a mountain of health challenges. She did so with her usual grace, dignity and good humor. The last time I visited with her she was going through a rough patch. When I walked into her room, without missing a beat, her first question was "How are the kids?" Lynne's attentions were always turned outward...even in times when everyone would've more than understood a little self-centeredness. But, that was not Lynne Roberts.

We lost Lynne this past week. Every now and then you are lucky enough to know someone who is just a good and decent person. That was Lynne. I suspect that when St. Peter started to ask Lynne about herself, she said she was just fine but "More importantly, how are you? How are the kids?"