Obituary of Roberta Jean Thalmann

Roberta “Bobbie” Jean Thalmann, nee Goheen, born on August 27th, 1934, in Jacksonville, Illinois, went to her heavenly home on January 18th, 2023, surrounded by family and friends after she succumbed to kidney failure. She was a dedicated mother, wife, and friend. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Merle Keehner, and stepdaughter Cheryl Savage (Thalmann). She is survived by her sisters Sally Bowmann and Carole Shepard, her husband, Verle Thalmann, her daughters Cathy Kruse and Charlene Lonchar, and her stepsons Jim, Steve, Ken, and Ron Thalmann.

Bobbie was known as the “Candy Lady” within her community, as she was known to give a handful of candy to those who took care of her, whether it was a server, nurse, or gate guard at Davis-Monthan AFB. She loved animals, especially Shetland Sheepdogs; she was particularly fond of her sheepdog Andy. She loved to crochet and made over a hundred afghans for her family and friends during her time living in Illinois, California, and Tucson. Bobbie also ran an Avon business in the 70”s, which she was well known for. She also enjoyed working at Tucson Bowl for a time in Tucson and House of Fabric in Roseville Cal.

She married Merle Von Keehner in 1955 and had two wonderful daughters: Cathy (Kruse) and Charlene (Lonchar). Her first husband, Merle, passed away unexpectedly in 1984. After Merle passed, she stayed in touch with her close friend, Joyce Thalmann, and her husband Verle. After Joyce passed, she maintained a close friendship with Verle, and ended up marrying him on March 6th, 1992. They enjoyed their years together before her passing.

Bobbie’s legacy will be celebrated at a memorial service at Holy Cross Lutheran Church (241 N. Harrison Rd.) at 11:00 am on February 11th, 2023. Bobbie asked during her final moments that anyone who has received an afghan from her in the past, bring that afghan as a celebration of her memory when they attend.