Roberta Anne Ciesiolka-Olen, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2023, surrounded by her loving family at her home. She bravely battled cancer, demonstrating unwavering strength and resilience until the end.
Born on March 9, 1946, Roberta was the second of seven siblings, a cherished member of her family. She will be deeply missed by all those whose lives she touched.
Roberta was preceded in death by her first husband, Jerome Ciesiolka, her parents, Ira E. and Helen Noerr, her brothers, Stephen and Charles Noerr, and her sister, Debra Arrick. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and cherished memories, and her spirit will continue to inspire those who knew her.
Roberta is survived by her devoted husband, Michael Olen of Killeen, and children, Bonnie Atkinson of Harker Heights, Jerome Ciesiolka II (Cynthia) of Killeen, Theresa Cox (Brian) of Killeen, John Ciesiolka (Karin) of Harker Heights, and Pamela Szymanski (Jim) of South Bend, IN. She was a nurturing and supportive mother, always providing unconditional love and guidance. Her children were a source of great pride and joy in her life.
She also leaves behind twelve grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren, who brought an extra sparkle to her eyes. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren dearly and took pleasure in watching them grow. Her love for her family was immeasurable, and she always made sure everyone felt cherished and valued.
Roberta's memory will be forever cherished by her surviving sisters, Jacqueline Luty, Marilyn Rodgers, and Margaret James, and sister-in-law, Faye Noerr, as well as her extended family and friends who were touched by her kindness, generosity, and warm heart.
During her life, Roberta enjoyed spending time with her rescue dogs, reading, puzzling, dining, and traveling, while creating lasting memories.
As we bid farewell to Roberta Anne Ciesiolka-Olen, we take solace in the knowledge that her spirit will forever remain in our hearts. Her love and memories will continue to guide us through life's journey. May she find eternal peace and rest in the embrace of her loved ones who have gone before her.
A visitation with rosary will be held Sunday, July 2, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen. A celebration of Roberta's life will be held on Monday, July 3, at 12:30 p.m., at Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen, with a burial at the Central Texas Veterans Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made in her honor to K9s for Warriors, as Roberta was passionate about rescue animals and veteran services. The website is k9sforwarriors.org.
Forever remembered, forever loved, and forever missed. Rest in peace, dear Roberta.
