Obituaries

December 7, 1929 to October 26, 2023

WINGATE - Janet L. Koebcke Robinson, 93, of Francesville, passed away peacefully Thursday evening, Oct. 26, surrounded by family.

She was born Dec. 7, 1929, in Francesville to the late Chris and Eva Page Koebcke. She married Wayne T. Robinson on Dec. 12, 1948 in Francesville. He preceded her in death Oct. 24, 1993.

Janet Robinson

Surviving are a daughter Sandy Papszycki of Lafayette and a son Dennis (Terry) Robinson of rural Francesville; grandchildren: Matthew (Kelley) Papszycki, Thomas Papszycki, Terra (Brian) Moore, Sean Robinson, Dana (Chris) Nunley, Andrew (Cassidy) Feldhaus, Amber Riegle, Stacy (John) Bings and Jake Chapman. Also great-grandchildren Brady (Breanna) Eagle, Bailey and Coleson Papszycki, Addistyn and Cade Nunley, Tate Papszycki, Blain Moore, Connor and Ethan Riegle and Hayden Feldhaus, Tia Brings, Joshua (Eleanor) Brings; plus great-great-grandchildren Finley Swore, Jett Wilks and Lainey Eagle. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews.  

She was also preceded in death by siblings Ruby Pardue, Kay (Bill) Rater and Richard Koebcke. Her biggest heartbreaks were the loss of two daughters Shari Robinson and Trudi Robinson Riegle and great-granddaughter Riley Papszycki  

Mrs. Robinson graduated from Francesville High School and worked for a while as a telephone operator until she settled with her husband on their family farm west of Francesville. She relished being a mother and loyal wife. Having grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren was the icing on the cake for her. Family was always first, and she loved family holiday celebrations and never forgot a birthday or special occasion. Outside her love for family and God was raising, riding, training and showing horses - a passion that brought her great joy. She was known as “drill sergeant” when instructing her grandchildren on handling horses. Besides her beloved horses, she enjoyed playing cards, line dancing with her sister, playing guitar, crocheting, long camping trips and cooking for her family. Homemade noodles and Chex Mix were two family staples of hers that no one dared to imitate.

Janet will be remembered as a ’tough old bird’ who went through more than most could handle. She was a strong-willed woman and was never one to complain or be afraid of hard work. She was a frugal woman but when it came to family, she would give everything she had. She genuinely held onto her Christian faith and for that she will always be with family. Her deep faith was evident in her lifetime membership of the First Christian Church of Francesville, where she sang in the choir and held the title of the oldest living member. She was last of the “Grand Ladies of Gillam Township” and was lovingly referred to as ‘Blondie’ by neighbors and friends. The friendships and memories that Janet and Wayne built were her treasures. She leaves a legacy that lives on forever in those she leaves behind. Her family has lost a beautiful and integral piece of its family tapestry. She wove her family together with threads of love, loyalty, selflessness, humor, sophistication, passion and grace.  

Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m., Monday, Oct. 30; and one hour prior to the funeral service at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 31, with Pastor James Ketchen officiating; all held at the First Christian Church of Francesville. Burial will follow in Roseland Cemetery, Francesville. Those attending are invited back to the church following the graveside service for a luncheon.  

Memorial donations may be made to the First Christian Church of Francesville.  

Family and Friends Funeral Home of Wingate is assisting with arrangements.  Visit online at www.familyandfriendsfh.com to sign the guestbook or share a condolence.