A life-long area resident, she was born April 14, 1935, in Bainbridge, the daughter of the late Robert and Lena (Taylor) Parsons.
Roberta and her husband Calvin owned and operated a family farm in Otego for many years. While raising her children, Roberta went to work for Amphenol in Sidney. She worked there for over thirty years on wiring harnesses, connector assembly as well as a gauge inspector in the tool Crib.
Roberta had a love of hunting and collecting Indian artifacts such as arrowheads, blades and pottery. She and her husband Calvin were instrumental in forming the Roland B. Hill Memorial Museum of Indian Archeology in Otego where she served as its Treasurer for many years. She operated, made and sold funnel cakes from their own concession at the General Clinton Regatta and area County Fairs which helped fund the Indian Museum. Roberta also enjoyed playing Pitch. She always looked forward to the weekly card games with her family and playing Old Maid with her Great Grandkids.
She is survived by her loving children, Joseph and Kitty Behnke of Sidney, Robert and Cindy Behnke of Otego, Irene Behnke of Bainbridge, Linda Donnell and Jim Leach of New Lisbon; son-in-law, Doug Bliss of Otego; her sister Betty Rueter of Las Vegas. She is also survived by her many grandchildren and several great grandchildren; a brother and sister-in-law; as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, close friends and her dog, Bella.
Roberta was predeceased by her husband Calvin and her daughter Carol Bliss.
At her request there will be no services at this time. Memorial contributions may be made in Roberta’s memory to the Roland B. Hill Memorial Museum of Indian Artifacts, 361 Main Street, Otego, NY 13825 or to the Otsego County Alzheimer’s Association, 140 County Highway 33w, Cooperstown, NY 13326
To light a candle or send an online condolence, visit www.bookhoutfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are by the Bookhout Funeral Home, Oneonta.
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