Sister Roberta Zelhofer

Sister Roberta was born in a small farming community in central Door County, the scenic vacation land of Wisconsin. She was the fourth born of seven children to Katherine (Muller) and John Zelhofer. Loving, faith-filled, and close family ties kept her in the small town through grade school. The Zelhofer children enjoyed picking apples, cherries, and all sorts of berries, as well as other produce for which Door County is known.

Having enjoyed being taught by the Sisters of St. Francis of the Holy Cross, Sister Roberta entered their community during her formative years. Sister Roberta earned her Bachelor of Science Degree at St. Norbert College, West DePere, Wisconsin, and her Master’s of Education at Marquette University in Milwaukee.

As a Sister of St. Francis of the Holy Cross, Sister Roberta worked in the Green Bay Diocese as an Elementary School Teacher and as a Supervisor/Consultant in the Diocesan Department of Education. Later, as a member of the Sisters for Christian Community (S.F.C.C.), she continued her ministry in the Milwaukee Archdiocese. Positions she held included the Elementary School Principalship, a Religious Education Catechist, and a substitute teacher in the Milwaukee area Catholic Schools. She often taught at Holy Apostles Parish School in New Berlin.

Sister Roberta had a wide variety of interests and hobbies, including her pets Ollie and Beanie. She enjoyed reading, gardening, and traveling with family and friends. Sister Roberta is best remembered for her kindness, gentleness, and generosity in helping those in need.

Sister Roberta Zelhofer went home to heaven on October 24, 2025. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Katherine (Muller) Zelhofer; brothers Willard and John; sisters Cecilia Delcham, Katherine Bosman, Germaine Hicksom, and Marion May; and her dear friend Doreen Chause. She is survived by nieces and nephews, members of the Sisters of Christian Community, and many others whose lives she had touched.

A special thank you to Avalon Manor and Brighton Hospice for providing support and care for Sister Roberta. Memorials in Roberta’s name can be made to Avalon Manor or Brighton Hospice.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at Corpus Christi Parish - St. Mary Church, 225 S Hartwell Avenue in Waukesha, Wisconsin, on Thursday, November 6th with visitation from 10:30 until 11:00 AM and funeral Mass from 11:00 AM until 12 Noon.