Rolf A. Klaebisch

Rolf A. Klaebisch

4/8/1932 – 11/20/2023

Rolf Albert Klaebisch, age 91, passed away peacefully with family by his side on November 20, 2023 due to a prolonged illness. He was preceded in death by parents, Alma Schutte and Albert Klaebisch.  He is survived by wife Anita; daughter Sandra (Scott); son Michael (Pam); grandchildren Alex and Ryan Sasse, and Spencer and Connor Klaebisch.

Rolf was born on April 8, 1932 in Oldenburg, Germany. He lived here during his childhood and young adult life where he attended school, endured the conflict of World War II, and later became an apprenticed cabinet maker.  In his late teens, he met his wife Anita at one of his soccer matches and later immigrated to the United States with his cousin and another friend. Once here, he continued his passion for playing soccer by joining the soccer club at the German-American society. In his later years, Rolf continued this passion through his support and following of German soccer and the World Cup.

Rolf chose to settle in Omaha, Nebraska where he began working in the furniture repair and refinishing industry. After three years, Anita also immigrated to Omaha where they were reunited and soon married in September of 1956. During this time, the German-American Society served as their social network and support system as they attended many dances and banquets held at the society. He spent the latter part of his career working with Nebraska Furniture Mart until retiring in 1994. Several years later, Rolf and Anita moved to Las Vegas, Nevada where they lived for five years before deciding to move back to Omaha to be near family. Here, he kept busy by socializing with friends, watching soccer, and by supporting his family in all facets of their lives.

Rolf was always busy working on something. He took pride in keeping a well-maintained home and a meticulously manicured yard. He also enjoyed bird watching, painting, watching soccer, and puttering around the house. However, his true passion was his wife, children, and grandchildren. Rolf and Anita also enjoyed traveling and spent many hours driving across the US to visit family and friends. Some of their favorite vacation spots included Hawaii and returning to Las Vegas.

Everyone knew him for his work ethic and determination, but he also had an ornery side as he never let a moment pass to crack a joke. He always said that his highest priority, purpose, and goal in life was to provide a good life for his family; a goal that many attempt, but few accomplish to the degree and magnitude that Rolf had managed to achieve. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by friends and family alike.

Preceded in death by parents, Albert and Alma Klaebisch.

Survived by wife, Anita; daughter, Sandra Sasse (Scott); son, Michael Klaebisch (Pamela); grandchildren: Alexander, Ryan, Spencer and Connor.

Memorial Service: Saturday, November 25th, 11AM at West Center Chapel with a luncheon to follow in the West Center Chapel Community Room.

Private Interment: Evergreen.

2 Comments

  • Margrit Knutzen Conway Posted November 25, 2023 12:53 pm

    My heartfelt condolences to Anita, Michael and Sandie for the loss of their loved one. Remember him so well for all the goods times we had when they visited my parents in Omaha.. So sorry for your loss.

  • Rita Knutzen Parry Posted November 27, 2023 1:32 pm

    I’m sending my deepest condolences for your loss. Rolf was a wonderful man and always enjoyed his company. I remember sleepover at your house and all the times visiting at mom and dad’s and a lot of May Days. Sending prayers for your family Anita.

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