Robert J. Malena

Robert Joseph Malena, 90, of Clarkson, Nebraska, died Friday, November 14, 2025, at Clarkson Community Care Center in Clarkson.

Mass of Christian Burial will be on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 10:30 AM at SS Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church in Clarkson, with Fr. Rodney Kneifl celebrating the Mass. Interment will be in the parish cemetery with military honors by The American Legion Post 155 Honor Guard. Visitation will begin on Wednesday at 9:30 AM with a Rosary being prayed around 10:10 AM, prior to the Mass at the church. Memorials are suggested as those of the donor or family choice.

Robert was born March 9, 1935, in Colfax County, Nebraska, to Anton and Adella (Korecky) Malena. He grew up in the Clarkson area and attended Colfax County Schools and Clarkson High School. Robert served in the United States Army. Upon his discharge, he returned home and on September 14, 1963, was united in marriage to Elaine Bazata in Howells. The couple made their home on the family farm until moving into Clarkson in 2004.

Farming was Robert's life and he continued to drive out to the farm to "check on things" up until the last few months of his life. He loved his "Czech" heritage and could speak and loved to sing in Czech. He was a member of the American Legion Post 155 of Howells, SS Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, and FCLA.

Robert was a devoted husband and father and searched the world over for a cure for his daughters. He and Elaine would become "snowbirds" during the winter and spend three months in Texas. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing Santa and going fishing.

Robert is survived by
Wife – Elaine Malena of Clarkson, NE
Sister – Alice Garvey of Omaha, NE
Nieces and nephews

Robert was preceded in death by:
Parents – Anton and Adella Malena
Daughters – Brenda and Beth Malena
Sister – Helen (Rudy) Konicek
Brother-in-law – Robert Garvey

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