Roberta M. Horstman

Roberta M. Horstman passed away on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, in Grand Island, Nebraska at the age of 83. Roberta was born on April 20, 1942, in Orchard, Nebraska to Emil and Genevieve (Storm) Klabenes. She graduated from Chambers High School with the class of 1960.

Throughout her life, she was a dedicated mother, blessed with four children whom she cherished. While raising her family, she worked as a farm hand, finding joy in being outdoors and tending to the fields rather than being cooped up inside. Her work ethic carried her through various roles, including baker, cook, and manager at the Clearwater bowling alley.

Later, Roberta moved to Cozad, where she worked for Ed Geiger on his farm. Following this, she took on jobs at Valley Vending, Tenneco Automotive, and Meadowlark Pointe, where she cooked in the kitchen until her retirement. After retiring, due to health issues, she moved to Heritage Assisted Living in Grand Island.

Roberta had a love for baking, gardening, landscaping, and bowling which brought her much happiness. Additionally, she enjoyed watching Nebraska Husker Football, proudly supporting her team.

Roberta will be remembered for her hardworking spirit and her love for the simple joys of life. Her legacy will live on through the memories she created with her family and friends.

Roberta was preceded in death by her parents, Emil and Genevieve Klabenes. Survivors include her children, Ronald Gartner of Cozad, Sharon (Greg) Jones of Grand Island, Bill (Alisha Jensen) Gartner of Cozad, and Lori Persson of West Point; grandchildren, Tonya Wilcox, Mitch (Jenna) Jones, Emily (Alex) Boehler, Trevor (Grace Ottman) Jones, Tiffany (Kelsey) Shane, Charity (Dan) Murow, Colten (Kimberly Kelley) Bolling, Keaton (Paige Lierman) Persson; numerous great grandchildren, nieces, nephews; brother, Robert (Jeri) Klabenes of OK and sister, Jeannette (Lonnie) Erikson of Cairo.

Memorials are suggested to Bethany Presbyterian Church. Roberta’s wishes were to be cremated. A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 8, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. with visitation at 9:30 a.m. prior to the service at Bethany Presbyterian Church with Pastor Kasey Summerer officiating. Burial will be at Royal Cemetery, Royal Nebraska.