ROWAN R. RABE
A Celebration of Life Service for Rowan Randall Rabe was held on Tuesday, January 12, 2021, at 2:3o p.m. at the Hope Lutheran Church in rural Smithfield, NE with Pastor Daniel Landin officiating. Interment will follow at the Hope Lutheran Cemetery in rural Gosper County, NE.
Due to health concerns, regarding the COVID-19 pandemic; current CDC and Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services guidelines for Faith-Based Services and Gatherings will be followed. The Rabe family sincerely encourages each person to make their decision whether to attend Rowan’s services, based on the best interest of your health, and that of your community. The funeral services will be live-streamed via the Hope Lutheran Church Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/HopeLutheranChurchSmithfield
Rowan Randall Rabe, of rural Bertrand, NE, passed away at the young age of six on Sunday, January 3, 2021, at University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, Nebraska due to a brain aneurysm. Rowan was born on January 9, 2014, to parents Riley and Maura (Sjomeling) Rabe, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Nebraska.
Rowan’s “larger than life” personality was apparent from the day he was born. He was lively, outgoing and always ready for any adventure with anyone. He showed those around him what it truly looks like to live and love to the fullest. He tried to pack in as much as possible into his short life and was always asking, “Now what can we do?”
His parents often described him as strongwilled and his grandparents knew he was going to do big things someday. There was a presence about him so intense and full of determination yet so gentle and sensitive at the same time. He was always observing and absorbing every detail of life around him.
Rowan’s favorite place to be was on the farm with his family, especially his Dad and Papa Randy. He was right in the action from an early age. Riding in the tractor, helping with the cows, tinkering and “fixing” things with his pliers were just a few things that kept Rowan busy. He sometimes thought he ran the operation and he was not afraid to train Papa Dan and Uncle Ty when they came to help.
Rowan was so proud of his younger brother, Vince and was thrilled to have Vince as his buddy. They had a special bond and you would often find Rowan holding Vince’s hand leading the way. Vince loved being with Rowan and always referred to him as “My Rowie”. Rowan was his protector in this life and he will continue to watch over Vince from Heaven.
Rowan built strong connections with everyone he met, but the connection he had with his grandparents was exceptional. He begged to spend time with them all. Driving the boat as captain with Papa Dan, walking the trail to the book house with Grandma Nana, his favorite meal “chicken-on-thebone” with Grandma DeAnn, and truck rides with Papa Randy were just a few of Rowan’s special requests when with them. The memories they made together will never be forgotten.
Rowan attended Little Angels Daycare in Elwood, NE from infancy until his school days began. He formed close bonds with his daycare provider, Zobeth, and all of his friends there. Rowan attended Bertrand Community School and was in 1st grade. He loved school and was always eager to go and eager to learn. He considered everyone at school his friend. He also loved his church and learning songs about Jesus. Although a little shy in church performances, he would occasionally join in singing or would surprise everyone with one of the actions.
Memories shared with Rowan will always be cherished. His infectious smile and contagious laugh will be sorely missed. Time spent at the lake, adventures on the farm and celebrations will never be the same. Though we long to know what Rowan would do someday, we have found peace knowing that maybe his “something big” was that he taught us so much in six, almost seven, short years. Live big, cherish every moment, and be kind!
Rowan has been named as an honorary organ donor. He would have loved to help anyone in need and although he could not pass on the gift of life, we know it was his legacy.
Left to cherish his memory: his father and mother, Riley and Maura Rabe and brother, Vincent of Bertrand; grandparents: Randall and DeAnn Rabe of Bertrand; Daniel and Shaunna Sjomeling of Johnson Lake; greatgrandparents: Robert and Mary Sjomeling of Deadwood, SD; Dee McGowan of Grand Island, NE; beloved aunts, uncles and cousins: Tyler, Andrea, Alyvia and Alyssa Rabe of Bertrand; DeLaine Rabe of Omaha; Rob Sjomeling of Denver, CO; Danielle, Shane, Evelyn, Thomas, Jane, Clara, and Elouise Erickson of Hastings, NE; Carli, Kipp and Howie Williams of Grand Island; and host of other beloved family and friends.
He is preceded in death by his greatgrandparents: Dean and DeLores Hock; Jack McGowan; Clifford and Louisa Rabe; greatuncles: Timothy Rabe; and Carlie Sjomeling; and dear family friend, Dennis Wilken.
Visitation for Rowan was held on Monday, January 11, 2021, at the Hope Lutheran Church in rural Smithfield. Face coverings were required.
A memorial has been established in Rowan’s honor, and kindly suggested to the family for later designation.
Expressions of caring and kindness can be sent to the family at www.nelsonbauerfh.com
The Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege, Nebraska is assisting the family with the arrangements.
