Arthur (Bob) Robert Goodman, age 96, a resident of Columbus, Nebraska passed away May 22, 2026. Bob was born in Broadwater, Nebraska on November 15, 1929, the son of John Robert Goodman and Lola Mae (Netherland) Goodman. He married Neoma (Bussey) Goodman on July 29, 1953 and is now reunited with her in death.

While he did not finish high school he went on to teach himself mathematics, science, and physics to become a highly-skilled employee of Loup Power District for over 40 years. Upon retirement in 1991 his replacement held an advanced degree in electrical engineering speaking to the education level he managed to reach on his own.

Along with his wife Neoma, Bob was part of a roller-skating square dance troupe and bowling leagues, fished often, and taught a whole generation of Columbus teens to water-ski at Lake North in the 60s and 70s. After his retirement he dedicated himself to fishing, bowling, telling jokes, cheating at cards, and spending time with his grandchildren who lovingly call him ‘Baka’.

Generous with friends and strangers alike, Bob was known for being able to fix just about anything that was broken and quick to build a creative solution if one wasn’t readily available. This philosophy extended into his life as someone who was willing to work hard and who could find joy in the challenges he faced. This combination of humor, skill, and creativity made Bob a pillar of his family and community; he was always ready and available to lend a hand and then just as ready to tease you for getting into that situation in the first place. Bob was as quick to help as he was to laugh, and both were always welcomed and appreciated by all.

Bob is survived by two sons, Steven (Dawn) Goodman of Pender, and Gary (Terri) Goodman of Aurora, Colorado, a daughter, Bonnie (Mark) Keller, of Columbus, a nephew Gordy (Penny) Goodman of Broken Bow; eight grandchildren, Jason (Sarah) Goodman of Littleton, Colorado, Amy (Josh) Kavan of Eagle, Aaron Goodman of Pender, Alyson Goodman of Denver, Colorado, Ethan Goodman of Denver, Colorado, Robin (Todd) Spark of Omaha, Jillyan (Nick) Schleich of Columbus, Katie Keller of Columbus; sixteen great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren.