Florence L. Roberts

It is with great sadness that the family of Floss Roberts writes of her passing. She would not have wanted a lengthy obituary written so this is our last chance to disobey and we’re going to run with it.  

Floss was the youngest child of an Irish farmer James O’Connor and his wife Mary Ellen (Mamie) She grew up on a farm in the Great Depression where being thrifty was essential. Also, education, music and service to God were core values of the family. She and her sisters all had piano lessons and could play the organ.  Floss attended school in Kaukauna and was the homecoming queen in 1943. While in high school she caught the eye (and heart) of a handsome young man named John (Jack) Roberts and after his service in World War II they were married in September of 1948.  

Floss had 7 children and was a firm but loving mother who literally had eyes in the back of her head. OK not literally, but she was the one who made it all work.  Education was emphasized early on and all 7 of her kids went to college. Floss also went back to school after her youngest was in kindergarten. She attended the Outagamie County Teachers College and graduated with a teaching degree. From there she took a job teaching at St. Francis grade school and was able to save enough money to surprise Jack with a car! She and Jack attended all the sports games, recitals, plays and concerts that their kids were in while also running the Hyland House (she was the bookkeeper and Hostess) and playing the organ, then later the piano for numerous masses, weddings and funerals. Floss had a gift for conversation and had many lifelong friends who she cherished. Spirited card games were known to break out and she played bridge and Sheepshead well into her nineties. Somehow, she found time to volunteer and helped with the Literacy Council and Special Olympics and always got Christmas gifts for less fortunate families in the community. 

While the kids were growing up there was always an O’Connor family reunion for a week each summer. Uncles, Aunts and cousins drove from New York and Colorado to be part of this shindig where there were always cookouts, singing, ball games, croquet and of course cards to be played. Our many cousins share fond memories of these summer days that seemed to last forever. 

As Floss and Jack’s kids got married the grandkids started coming and what a joy they are. More parties, birthdays and graduations were celebrated. Soon they retired and sold the Hyland House but that just meant more time for golf, fishing and family. Christmas at the Roberts house was a grand affair with too many to count as the house filled with food and laughter. 

Floss and Jack really enjoyed life and kept busy throughout retirement traveling with friends to Arizona, Denver and to many places in their beloved Wisconsin.  Their bond was unbreakable so we know they’re together again laughing and loving with so many who have gone before them. Floss is survived by 6 children:  John (Peg) Roberts, Joe Roberts, Peg Roberts, Tim (Judy) Roberts, Beth Roberts, Jane (Steve) Lynk, Maureen (Rudy) Budiac. Grandchildren Becky (Mike) Dreyer, Jerry Roberts, David (Tamra) Roberts, Melissa (Scott) Roberts, Emily (Chad) Lee, Sharika (Aaron) Clark, Ana (Megan) Roberts, Connor (Maria) Roberts, Aubrey (Caleb) Peterson, Brett Culp, Ireland Budiac and Jack Budiac. There are 15 great grandchildren (so far). Floss was preceded in death by her husband Jack and beloved son Mark as well as her parents, siblings, in-laws and many friends. 

A special mention here is for her close friend Bonnie Golden who is part of Mom’s extended family. Also, her girls (Leslie, Stephanie, Jane, Pam and Rose) who kept her on her toes and provided warm companionship in her later years.    

The Roberts family sends their sincere thanks to St. Paul’s Elder Services, Aspire Assisted Living in Kimberly, and Moments Hospice services for their thoughtful care. 

A funeral mass for Floss will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 1, 2022 at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 309 Desnoyer St., Kaukauna. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. and will continue until the time of service.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to St. Paul’s Elder services or Moments Hospice.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.