Robert J. “Bob” “Bubba” Johnsen, 86, of Beatrice, Nebraska, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, March 8, 2026, at Bryan East Medical Center in Lincoln. Born on August 19, 1939, in Beatrice to William and Grace (Wallman) Johnsen, Bob grew up with the strong values of faith, family, and service that shaped the course of his life.
He graduated from Beatrice High School and later attended Wartburg College, carrying with him a deep appreciation for learning and community. On December 31, 1969, he married Donna Doehler at Holy Cross Church in Beatrice, beginning a marriage rooted in devotion, partnership, and shared purpose.
Bob lived a life defined by hard work and dedication. He served briefly in the Nebraska Air National Guard before beginning a long and varied career. Over the years, he worked for Schottler Manufacturing, served as a workshop supervisor at the Martin Lutheran Home, and later contributed his skills to Cominco, Natural Gas Pipeline, and Store Kraft before returning to Ratigan‑Schottler.
No matter the role, Bob was known for his reliability, strong work ethic, and genuine care for the people around him. His coworkers and friends remember him as someone who always showed up, always helped, and always brought a steady, positive presence to the workplace.
Service to others was at the heart of Bob’s life. He was a proud member of the Bitting‑Norman Post #27 of the American Legion, the American Legion Riders, and Southwood Lutheran Church in Lincoln. A former member of the Homestead Harmonizers and the church choir, Bob loved sharing music and fellowship with others. He especially cherished greeting at church and providing motorcycle escorts and flag lines for fallen veterans—acts of honor that reflected his deep respect for those who served. His commitment to community extended to delivering Meals on Wheels, a role he embraced with compassion and joy.
Bob also found great happiness in the simple pleasures of life. He loved riding his Harley, camping, and caring for pets, squirrels, and birds. He was an avid Husker fan and a talented horseshoe pitcher and bowler, enjoying the camaraderie and friendly competition these activities brought. Those who knew him will remember his warm smile, his easygoing nature, and the way he made everyone feel welcome. Bob had a gift for bringing people together, and his presence brought comfort, laughter, and connection wherever he went.
Bob is survived by his wife, Donna Johnsen of Beatrice; sons Thomas (Molly) Johnsen of Hastings and Dr. Russell (Lisa) Johnsen of West Linn, OR; and grandchildren Arwen and Tarek Johnsen of West Linn, OR. He is also survived by brothers‑in‑law Roger Duitsman of Pickrell and David (Caryn) Doehler of Northville, MI, along with numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Marlene Duitsman; parents‑in‑law, Gerhard and Helen Doehler; brother‑in‑law, Howard Doehler; and sister‑in‑law, Laurel Doehler. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M. on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Holy Cross Church of Beatrice with Pastor Heidi Binstock officiating, with interment at Zion Lutheran Cemetery of rural Pickrell. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established to the American Legion Riders and Southwood Lutheran Church, honoring Bob’s lifelong devotion to service, faith, and community.