Howard P. Robbins
April 25, 1927 – January 20, 2025
Howard Pate Robbins was born on April 25, 1927, to Howard and Vivian Robbins in the Benson neighborhood of Omaha, Nebraska. Howard was the eldest child of three boys. As a child he especially enjoyed roller skating. He attended Benson High School where he would meet his future wife, Arline Andresen. Upon graduation from Benson High School, Howard enlisted in the United States Navy and served two years during the 2nd World War on the USS Iowa as an electrician. From there he went to work for Northwestern Bell Telephone Company working with telephones lines and communication technology. He knew every street and location in Omaha. Howard and Arline would marry in Omaha on October 18, 1947, and go on to raise three very active boys Larry, Dale and Joe. He passed on many of his “hobbies” and mechanical skills to his sons.
After his early retirement, Howard focused on knifemaking and was very talented in his field. He was an active member in the Knifemaking Guild and participated in many art shows both domestically and internationally to showcase and sell unique quality knifes to customers all over the world. Also, upon retirement, Howard and Arline would fulfill their dream of moving to Colorado. They lived many happy years on Mary’s Lake in Estes Park, CO…and even hosted a big “Robbins” reunion there. Eventually though, they wished to be closer to family and they moved back to a beautiful home in Elkhorn, NE. However, after a few years they once again made an adventurous choice and followed their son Dale’s move to Pomme de Terre Lake area in Missouri. They loved living in natural surroundings and made many lasting friendships there. His beloved wife Arline passed away on August 14, 2017, and it was decided to move Howard back in Omaha to be closer to family.
Howard’s final years in Omaha were spent with his family and friends. He also made many new friends in his time at New Cassel and at Parson’s House. Howard graced this world for 97 years and his legacy of kindness and love will continue to shine for generations to come
Preceded in death by wife, Arline; son, Dale Robbins; daughter-in-law, Joan Robbins; brother, Bill Robbins.
Survived by sons, Larry (Kim) and Joe Robbins; daughter-in-law, Shari Robbins; 6 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; brother, Jack (Lorene) Robbins; many other family members.
Visitation: Friday, January 31st, from 5-7pm at West Center Chapel.
Funeral: Saturday, February 1st, 10am at West Center Chapel.
Interment: Westlawn-Hillcrest.
Memorials may be directed to the family.
Heafey-Hoffmann-Dworak-Cutler, West Center Chapel, 7805 West Center Road, Omaha, Ne 68124. (402)-391-3900. www.heafeyheafey.com
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