Robert Joe Samuelson, born Nov. 28, 1935, in York, passed away Nov. 13, 2025.
Robert's life was marked by humble achievements, deep relationships and a profound love for the great outdoors. The legacy of his life is carried forward by his loving wife, Darlene Samuelson, with whom he shared 68 years of marriage since their union on March 17, 1957. Robert was a man of many talents and passions, each of which left a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of knowing him.
He graduated from Friend High School in 1954 and attended Doane College from 1954-1955. He worked at his uncle's service station, spent time as a farmer, obtained a journeyman electrical license, worked on the maintenance team at Warren Memorial Hospital and served as an EMT and was employed at the Friend Co-op until his retirement.
He was a member in the Friend Masonic Lodge, the Friend Gun Club trap shooting team, and volunteered. In his leisure, Robert found joy in the simplicity of nature. He was a skilled hunter and fisherman, a dedicated gardener and an avid woodworker and wood carver. These hobbies not only represented his love for the outdoors, but also his creative spirit and meticulous attention to detail.
As an active member of the Congregational Church of Friend, his faith remained a guiding force throughout his life and was reflected in his genuine kindness and compassion for others.
Robert is survived by his wife, Darlene Samuelson; children, Debra (Doug) Senkbile, Friend, Douglas (Robbie) Samuelson, Kearney, and Kristine (Roger) Horner, Friend; grandchildren, Jared (Angela) Samuelson, Kearney, Cody Horner, Deshler, and Jordan (Cody) Tucker, Kearney; great-grandson, Colton Samuelson, Kearney; brother, Jon "Doc" (Charmayne) Samuelson, Las Cruces, New Mexico; two nieces, cousins and numerous friends.
Robert was preceded in death by parents Ralph, and Molly Samuelson; and father-in-law and mother-in-law, George and Zelda Vossler.
Visitation will be Sunday, Nov. 23, from 2 – 8 p.m. at Lauber Funeral & Cremation Services in Friend, with family to greet and receive friends from 5 – 7 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be at the Congregational Church of Friend on Monday, Nov. 24, at 10:30 a.m. with a burial to follow at the Andrew Cemetery, Friend. Memorial contributions are suggested in care of the family for future designation.
Arrangements by Lauber Funeral and Cremation Services.
