Robert “Bob” Eugene Oetken

Robert “Bob” Eugene Oetken (age 71) passed away suddenly at home on April 23, 2024.

Bob was born on April 21, 1953 to Arthur and Mildred (Pallas) Oetken. He grew up on a farm in Emerson, NE with his six siblings: Dale (Darlene), Roger (Sharon), Connie Vraspir (Glen), Bev Gradert (Lennie), Larry (Barb), and Richard (Michelle).

In 1974, there was one girl in particular that caught Bob’s eye every time she came home from college. His pursuit was successful, and he married Karen Vraspir on September 19, 1975. They were looking forward to celebrating 50 years together next year. Bob and Karen had two daughters, Jill Brianne and Amber Dawn. He worked tirelessly to support his three girls, but it was a blessing when son-in-law, Matthew James LeFeber, joined the family in 2005. Among his greatest joys were his grandchildren: Natalie Anne (10), Elizabeth Breesa (8), and Isaiah Matthew Thomas (6). He loved watching them grow and attending their activities. He would tell you stories about them and how proud he was of them every chance he got.

Bob was strong-willed and outspoken, but he also had a great sense of humor and would do anything for those he cared about. He was generous, dependable, and determined. He was charismatic, creative, curious, and he loved to tinker. He was full to the brim with knowledge, which he gained through research and his life experiences: farm boy, road construction and maintenance, and pipe fitter. He liked to fix things (or at least try) even if it led to needing to fix more things! He was delighted by children and always seemed to make a small friend wherever he went. He loved being outdoors and enjoyed mowing, gardening, planting trees, and watching birds. Bob had the most beautiful green eyes.

Bob will be remembered for his frequent button-pushing and all the (often unsolicited) advice and life lessons he shared with his family and friends. He truly loved each of them – and if you knew him, you knew it. He was grateful for the life he had lived and will be dearly missed, but he is most likely having a heck of a time catching up with his parents, family, and friends that passed on before him.

In typical Bob fashion, there are no services planned, certainly no pomp and circumstance. His family invites you to a “Celebration of Life” open house on Thursday May 16th from 2:00 – 7:00 PM at The Urban Farmhouse Room in Lincoln, NE.

We have been comforted by the stories and memories of Bob that some of you have shared. In lieu of a memorial gift, we will have note cards available at his open house for you to leave a story, memory, or sentiment. We would also welcome the gift of a cherished photo if you would like to bring one. If you are unable to be present and would like to contribute, we would welcome these at the following e-mail address: oetken.memorial@gmail.com.

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