Robert Joseph Roth, 95 ornery years old, Lincoln, passed away Jan. 26. Bob was born in Dana, Illinois on Dec. 29, 1921, to Millie and Roy Roth. He graduated from Dana High School and soon after enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving in the Pacific during World War II. During his time in the Navy he met and married Ardell Gilfert, they shared almost 73 years together and had four children: Rose Ann, Douglas Roy, Mary Kay and Bradley Paul. They lived in Lincoln, Nebraska for the past 60-plus years, and Bob worked for the Lincoln Telephone Company for 40 years in a variety of positions. He was a proud member of the local chapter of the Masonic Lodge and the Frank H. Woods Pioneer Association.
Bob was a sweet, kind and big-hearted soul, who was continually surprised with the glories of this "super-duper, wonderful world." He was a jack of all trades, happy if he could putter and fix stuff. He loved his boat, especially on those crystal, still evenings when the lake looked like glass and the water skiing was perfection. He adored his children, grandchildren and greats, always generous with warm bear hugs and sloppy kisses. Bob taught his kids how to be good citizens – drive a stick shift and change a tire – ride the waves on a single water ski – live life to the absolute fullest. And he cherished Ardell – a woman who is undoubtedly now happily in his arms.
Bob is survived and loved by his children, Rose Ann Roth (Wendall Willey), Mary Kay Roth, Brad Roth; grandchildren Benjamin (Beq) Krauter, Anna and Josh Swartzlander, and Holly and John Roth; as well as great grandchildren, cousins, nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Ardell; his parents; his son, Douglas; his siblings, Marjorie and Betty; and his granddaughter, Kelly Ann.
Funeral services are scheduled for 9 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4 at Roper & Sons Funeral Home, 4300 O St. Visitation 6-8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3, also at Roper's. Memorials to the Frank H. Woods Telephone Pioneer Museum (P.O. Box 22752, Lincoln, NE, 68502).
Family Members
Spouse
Ardell Alberta Gilfert Roth
1918–2016
Children
Douglas Roy Roth
1949–1975
