Robert "Swede" L. Winbolt Jr.

Robert was born in Central City Nebraska in 1936 to Robert (Roy) and Rose Winbolt. Due to his calm and quiet demeanor, he was nicknamed Swede by his father. The name stuck throughout his entire life, with only his mother calling him Robert.

As the years went on, many people, including friends, friends of his kids, co-workers and neighbors referred to him as “Sweet Swede”. Kids were always drawn to him, he was the best listener, even if he didn’t understand most of what was said.

Swede grew up in Broken Bow, Nebraska, and spent many summers with his siblings in Central City working on the farm of his Aunt Soph and Uncle Ed Barta.

Swede worked in his father’s gas station, Bow Oil, and eventually managed it. He married Dottie Jones September 27, 1959. They went on to have Tammy, Tim and Tina before moving to LaVista in 1967.

They raised their children, welcomed grandchildren and great grandchildren in that home. Their home was also never without a dog; all of their dogs hit the lottery to live in the Winbolt home. But Swede always felt that he was the fortunate one.

Upon moving to LaVista, Swede was a mechanic at Beardmore Chevrolet in Papillion. Eventually, he found that his talent for putting things together reached into construction. After working for a local builder, Swede began a carpentry business with his friend and neighbor, Steve Waring. Swede went on to employ his son, Tim, and his sons-in-law, John and Duane. Teaching them and encouraging them to own their own carpentry businesses. The carpentry talent that started with Swede continues to thrive and grow into the next generations.

Swede is best remembered for his quiet and calm demeaner, he had much to say but said it through actions. His love for Dottie and their kids, and their families, always came first. He would drop everything when someone had a need. He would sit in hospitals for hours when a loved one was there. Often, they would wake up and find that he had been sitting in the dark, keeping watch over them.

His love for his parents, Aunt Soph, siblings and many nieces and nephews was apparent and returned by them all. He has been reunited with his parents and siblings now. We can only imagine the party that ensued when Swede arrived!

He is known for his hard work ethic and servant attitude. Constantly removing snow for his neighbors early in the mornings. He was often the first one up so their drives and sidewalks were clear before they arose. Packing his van full of stranded strangers during the blizzard of 1975. He drove each of them to their home, the Winbolt house was filled with flowers, cards and gifts as each one of those strangers showed their appreciation that he chose to take care of them rather than going straight home. There are endless stories of his service to others.

Swede’s siblings, kids and grandchildren remember him for his practical jokes and ornery fun. But mostly for teaching them a hard work ethic, respectful attitude and how to serve others.

So many fond memories, we hope you can join us and share yours. Swede preferred not to dress up, he was a casual guy. It is going to be hot on Saturday, please dress comfortably.

Swede was preceded in death by his Parents, Robert Leroy Sr. and Rose; Siblings, Ivan, Harry, Helen Seevers, Evelyn, Leila Horner.

He is survived by his Loving Wife, Dottie; Children, Tammy (John) Grate, Tim (Ann), Tina (Duane) Persinger; 7 Grandchildren; 8 Great-Grandchildren; Brother-In-Law, Donnie Jones; Sister-In-Law, Marie Jones; many nieces, nephews, and beloved friends.

A Memorial Service will take place on Saturday, August 13 at 10:00 am at Reality Church; 10695 Portal Rd., LaVista, 68128. Private Family Burial.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Swede's memory may be made to Town and Country Humane Society, 14110 S. 84th St, Papillion, Nebraska 68046; and Habitat for Humanity of Omaha, 1701 N. 24 St., Omaha, Nebraska 68110.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.KahlerDolceMortuary.com for the Winbolt family.