Darlene M. Roehrig

Darlene M. Roehrig

April 1, 1930 – August 9, 2020

 

Darlene Roehrig was born on April 1, 1930 to William and Evangeline Smith in Omaha, Nebraska.  Darlene has three sisters: Dorene, Delores, and Dorthea.  The family grew up on South 13th Street.  Darlene graduated from Central High School in 1948.  At that time, she worked for a Laundry Service.

Darlene met Henry through friends at the Roller Bowl on Leavenworth Street.  If you asked her, she would say she went out with him because she liked his fancy black convertible.  They got married a year later, on August 27, 1949.  The following year, Kathy was born.  Henry had to report for navy duty to serve in the Korean War when Kathy was one month old.  Darlene’s sister, Dorthea moved in to help her with the new baby.  She would walk with the stroller to Jones Street to visit with Henry’s siblings, Tony, Louise, and Jeanette.

Henry returned home a year later, and they had 3 more children, Pat, Jean, and Denise.  Darlene had converted to Catholicism and they were parishioners of St. Peters Catholic Church on 27th and Leavenworth, where all the children attended grade school.

Darlene’s dad William moved in with the family before Denise was born and helped Darlene while Henry was at work.  William lived with the family until he moved to Saint Catherine’s Nursing home.

Henry and Darlene enjoyed playing cards with the neighbors.  Family car rides became a Sunday treat.  We all looked forward to our annual family vacations.

Darlene finally learned to drive, getting her license when she was 38.  She worked at Food Services at UNO with her sisters-in-law, Louise and Jeanette.  They pretended not to be related, as that was not allowed.

Darlene was blessed with 8 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren.  They were active chauffeurs in transporting grandchildren and thoroughly enjoyed attending their activities.  Weekend Big Red Football games was a must!

In 2002, Darlene lost Henry, her life-long partner.  She was actively involved in the lives of her children and their families, whether it was shopping, ball games, road trips, making cookies, or bringing food to the fire station for Pat.  She was an amazing wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sibling.

In 2013, Darlene could no longer live alone in her home and moved to an Assisted Living Facility.  She spent her last 6 months of her life in isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Darlene is survived by her 4 children: Kathy (Allan), Pat (Kim), Jean (Robert), and Denise (D. J.); 7 grandchildren: Brandi (Mike), Timothy (Melissa), Randy (Ashlee), Kelli (Abby), Joseph (Jennifer), Kyla (Amy), and Justin (Nicole); 18 great-grandchildren: Samantha, Stephanie, Haileigh, Tyler, Henry, Ashton, Gabe, Jaxson, Aubrey, Susan, Jameson, Jaden, Jordan, Marley, Jacen, Madalyn, Indigo, and Mac; brother-in-law, Arthur Laursen; and a host of relatives, friends, and many nieces and nephews.

Darlene was preceded in death by her loving husband of 53 years, Henry; grandson, Chadron; and 3 sisters.

Private Family Services.  Memorials will be directed by the family.

To view a video of the Mass, go to our website and click the service link in the obituary of Darlene any time after 3pm on Thursday.

 

 

 

 

13 Comments

  • Darryl and Barb Petersen Posted August 11, 2020 7:57 am

    Denise and Family; We are so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. Hold tight to the memories and know that she and your Dad are now together again. With sympathy and prayers.

  • Peter And Lynda. Orbik Posted August 11, 2020 5:44 pm

    You are in our thoughts and prayers

  • Ron and Debbie Mona Posted August 11, 2020 6:43 pm

    We are very sorry to hear of her passing. We will offer prayers for her and the family.

  • Lisa Reeves Posted August 12, 2020 6:44 am

    Denise and Family we are so very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers.
    Ryan, Lisa Reeves and Family

  • Marla larmon Posted August 12, 2020 10:26 am

    Pat and family my deepest condolences… The story of you mom is inspiring. She was a remarkable woman. God bless and may she now rest in peace. Pixie

  • Mitzi Fahey O ‘Donnell Posted August 12, 2020 12:32 pm

    To all of Aunt Dar’s family: my sincere condolences to you all. She was a wonderful lady . She is up in heaven having a great time with all of the family. Love and prayers to each of you.

  • Jerry & Laura Navin Posted August 12, 2020 12:44 pm

    Your mom was such a lovely lady. Her life was full ♥️
    Sending love & hugs to you all. May the perpetual light shine upon this beautiful soul.

  • Steve and Kristie Harrison and Family Posted August 12, 2020 12:44 pm

    Sorry for your loss, hugs and prayers.

  • Joe and Susi Keenan Posted August 12, 2020 5:55 pm

    Kathy, Jean, Denise and Pat…we are all blessed to have had her in our lives. She will live in our memories and in our hearts. We are better to have known her. We love you all. God speed aunt Darlene.

  • Lee and Kelly Valencia Posted August 13, 2020 12:53 am

    I remember many stories you have told me about your Mom and I know these sweet memories will help you through the sad times. If you need me, I’m a phone call away. We love you and you are forever in our thoughts and prayers.

  • Bill & Kathy Greim Posted August 13, 2020 8:50 am

    So sorry about your Mom’s passing. She lived a full life and was able to enjoy her family and generations of children. You’re very fortunate to have her in your lives for such a long time.

  • Gerard Greim Posted August 13, 2020 9:55 am

    So sorry to read of your loss Pat. Your mother and father live on in your memories and love.

  • JoAnn Barrett Posted August 13, 2020 8:08 pm

    Kathy, Pat, Jeannie and Denise , My prayers are with you all. I’m so sorry for your loss. Aunt Darlene will be in our hearts forever ❤️ She is resting in Gods arms now. Until we meet again

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