Roberta J. Suenram, age 77, of Lawrence, KS passed away peacefully on March 26, 2025, after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer's disease. Roberta was the eldest of nine children born to Robert and Geraldine Suenram. She is survived by her brothers Fr. John Suenram OCD, Dr. Mark Suenram, Gerald Suenram and Ted Suenram and sisters Paula Dupigny-Leigh, Mary Kozak and Julie Porter. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Geraldine Suenram as well as her brother Tom Suenram, niece Leah Kozak and nephew Jacob Suenram.
Roberta grew up on the Suenram family farm near Moundridge KS, and subsequently their home in McPherson, KS. She had a brilliant career, first as an Xray and MRI technician in Wichita, KS, growing in stature to a role with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas City as Chief Operating Officer of their affiliate, Preferred Health Professionals.
Roberta's most important role was as daughter, sister, aunt and best friend to her family including her cherished nephews and nieces. Roberta could be counted on as counselor, nurse, cheerleader, coach and shoulder to cry on. She had many close friends, supported several causes and was active in the Democrat Party in Kansas. She was an adventurous traveler and loved her cats. Above all, family was important to Roberta, and she rarely missed the family fishing vacation in Bennett Springs, MO. This year, our family will raise a toast to her spirit as we continue this tradition after more than 50 years.
A Mass will be held for Roberta at St. Joseph Catholic Church, McPherson, on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Following a short graveside service at McPherson Cemetery, the family invites you to join them for lunch at the church.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to The Alzheimer's Association or St. Joseph Catholic Church in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.