ROBIN A. GOSSMAN

Robin Ann (Howard) Gossman, 55, of rural Stella, died Thursday, Jan. 1, 2015 at her home. She was born Oct. 6, 1959 to Earl Howard, Jr. and Mary (Kirkendall) Howard.

She attended Barada School through the eighth grade and graduated from SE Nebraska Consolidated School in 1977. Robin earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education, with a special education endorsement, from Peru State College in 1985.

On Oct. 28, 1978 she married Leslie Gossman. They were blessed with three sons: David, Jonathan, and Daniel (although she always said she raised four boys). They made their home on a farm near Stella.

After college, Robin substitute taught until receiving a full-time position with SENC School. In addition to her teaching duties, she was the main grant writer for the school. From 2001 to 2009, Robin was the pre-school teacher and aide.

She was very involved with her sons’ activities, including being a member of People For Kids and working on post-prom committees. She played softball for the “Scooby-Doos,” and enjoyed gardening and other horticultural projects. She belonged to the Barada United Methodist Church and the Stella Garden Club.

When she was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2013, Robin made the decision to live her life to the best of her ability while fighting the tumor. With help from Les and the rest of her family, she was able to stay home throughout her struggle.

Robin is survived by her husband Les, of rural Stella; sons, David (Becky) Gossman, of Falls City, Jonathan Gossman, of Roeland Park, KS, Daniel (Tara) Gossman, of Johnson; grandchildren, Tessa and Conner; mother, Mary Howard, of Falls City; brothers and sisters-in-law, Jerry (Barb) Howard, of Barada; Bob (Sherri) Howard, of Falls City; sister-in-laws, Bonnie Howard, of Savannah, IL, and Mary Ava Gossman, of Omaha; brother-in-law, Alan Gossman, of Lincoln; many other relatives and many friends.  

She was proceeded in death by her father, Earl; parents-in-law, Gordon F. and Mary Gossman; infant sister, Nancy; and brothers Terry and Richard.

A memorial service, officiated by Wayne Shafer, was held Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2015 at Hemmingsen Funeral Home in Auburn. Solos were sung by Cari Kreienhop and Dale Thomas. Honorary bearers were nieces and nephews: Heather Picolotti, Jamie Hamm, Todd Howard, Ben Howard, Terry Howard, Jessica Snethen, Ashley Salsman and Jenna Stewart. Inturnment of ashes will be at a later date.