Robert James Mathiesen (Bob) was born on June 7, 1942 in Chester, Nebraska, to Theodore and Eveline (Fintel) Mathiesen. He left us on February 14, 2026, peacefully at his home of 50+ years in Hebron, Nebraska.

He was united in marriage to Cheryl Mussman, and to this union one son was born, Eric James Mathiesen.

Bob was baptized and confirmed at the Lutheran Church in Hebron. Bob attended school in Hebron.

Bob learned at a young age the meaning of hard work. He spent 40+ years working on the Union Pacific Railroad. He often said he walked across the United States while working there.

While Eric was young, they spent many weekends at Lovewell Lake where Bob taught several people to water ski.

Bob worked hard and liked to play hard as well. After retirement he spent his first years watching his grandkids, Paige and Hunter, whether it be at his pool in the back yard, museums they found, or going to McDonald’s where everyone got a small burger, small fry and small Coke. Everyone! And they would go to a local park and eat, then play. After Hunter got Bob’s Camaro for his 16th birthday, Bob enjoyed going to car shows with Eric and Hunter, and he was so proud when they’d come home with “hardware.”

Bob was as ornery as the day is long. He could be very grumpy and stern and meant what he said, but his heart was just as big and would help everyone in need.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents Ted and Eveline; step-father Ray Bauer; brother Larry; sister Lois; and great-granddaughter Henleigh Elaine Yoachim.

Bob is survived by his son Eric and wife Kristy Mathiesen; granddaughter Paige and husband Josh Yoachim; grandson Hunter Robert Mathiesen, all of Hebron; special granddaughter Brianna; brothers Roger and wife Beverly Mathiesen of Kearney, and Floyd Mathiesen of Beatrice; great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

A Celebration of Bob’s Life will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. at the Hebron Bible Church, 145 South 4th Street in Hebron, with Pastor Jeff Friesen officiating. A Luncheon will be served before the service from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Hebron Fire Hall, 440 Jefferson Avenue in Hebron.

Memorials are designated to the family’s choice, and may be mailed in care of the family to Price Funeral Home, PO Box 187, Hebron, NE 68370.