Robert John Carstens, of rural Burwell, Nebraska passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at his home at the age of 66.

Robert was born on October 1, 1959, in Burwell, Nebraska, to Norris and Mary (Canfield) Carstens. He was raised in the Burwell, Ericson and Ord areas and received his education at Country School District #10 ½, Ord Elementary and High Schools and Seward High School.

Robert developed the strong work ethic and love of the outdoors that would define his life. After high school, he traveled to Texas where he worked as an iron worker. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Tammy Lubianski. The couple was united in marriage on May 24, 1980, in San Antonio, Texas. Robert later went to work in the Texas oil fields before returning home to Burwell.

Upon returning, Robert founded Carstens Construction, where he proudly worked as a general contractor for many years. He continued in this role until his retirement in 2022, after which he stayed busy working on the family homestead — something he truly enjoyed.

Robert had a deep passion for life and the people around him. He loved hunting, fishing, golfing, muscle cars, and old pickup trucks. One of his greatest joys was coaching his sons' baseball teams, a role he took seriously and with great pride. He was also a devoted Husker fan and loved "all things Nebraska".

Robert is survived by his wife, Tammy Carstens of Burwell; his sons, Cory (Jackie) Carstens of Ord, Shane (Jessica) Carstens of Pleasanton, and Ryan (Jodie) Carstens of Glade, Kansas; brothers, Dan (Sabrina) Carstens of Ericson and James Carstens of Hastings; a sister, Ruth Ann Frerichs of Iowa and his twelve grandchildren, whom he cherished deeply.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Timothy Carstens.

Robert will be remembered for his hard work, loyalty to family, love of coaching and the outdoors and the steady presence he provided for those who knew him. His legacy lives on through his family and the many lives he touched.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Burwell, Nebraska. Pastor Tim Reicks will officiate. A luncheon will be held in the Fellowship Hall following the church service. 

 Memorial gifts and condolences may be sent to Tammy Carstens, 1916 N Street, Ord, NE 68862.