Roberta Husted Braunlin, 95, of Fort Wayne, passed away Saturday, Aug. 20, 2022. She was the daughter of the late Glenn and Naomi Husted and grew up in Marion, Ind. Earning her way through college, she graduated with a Business Degree from Indiana University, then had an exciting year working in New York City. Roberta returned to Indiana to marry Robert J. Braunlin in 1952. They began raising three daughters while Bob was in engineering school and medical training, and then moved to Fort Wayne. As an involved member of Plymouth Congregational Church for over 50 years, she taught Sunday school, visited those who couldn't attend, was a mentor at Crossroad Child and Family Services, and served on pastoral search committees. Always an active listener, she worked later in life as a survey research field interviewer for NORC. Roberta enjoyed playing tennis, snow skiing on black diamond slopes (into her 70's), tutoring with Study Connection, being in a bridge club, playing the piano, cheering for IU basketball, teaching CPR, participating in book clubs, and especially vacationing with friends and family. She also took flight lessons and flew solo. With an ever-present smile and laugh, Roberta was a loving, appreciative, faithful, inclusive critical thinker. Surviving are her brother, James Husted; three daughters, Sue Ellen Braunlin (Ron Reisman), Kathryn Carboneau (Charles), and Barbara Conard (Douglas); grandchildren Elias Reisman (Hydi Fair and her sons August and Jack), Marta Reisman, Russell Conard (Whitney and great-granddaughter Madeline), Gracie Conard, and Emerson Conard. She was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Robert J. Braunlin; and brothers, William Husted and John Husted. Roberta's family is grateful for the loving care from Towne House Retirement and Health Center, and from Heartland Hospice. A Celebration of Life service is 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, 2022, at Plymouth Congregational Church, 501 W. Berry St., Fort Wayne, with visitation one hour prior. In lieu of flowers, consider memorial gifts to Plymouth Congregational Church of Fort Wayne, 501 W. Berry St., Fort Wayne, IN 46802; Crossroad Child & Family Services, 1825 Beacon St., Fort Wayne, IN 46805; or Growing Hope Globally, PO Box 5628, Carol Stream, IL 60197-5628.
