Maheo called Roberta Mae (Flatness) Foote home on March 28, 2013 after a short and courageous battle with cancer. Roberta was born on November 29, 1944 to Kermit & Dorothy (Harris) Flatness in Havre, MT. She attended Lame Deer School and then graduated from Colstrip High School. After High School Roberta went to college at Black Hills Teachers College (aka Black Hills State) in Spearfish, South Dakota earning her degree in Business and Physical Education teaching.
Roberta married Richard Foote on August 24, 1968 in Sheridan, Wyoming. From this union three children were born Richard Jr., Ricarda and Baby Shawnta’ Rae. Roberta and Richard later divorced. Roberta taught school at St Labre and Chief Dull Knife College for 42 years touching many lives before retiring in August of 2011.
Roberta “Sister” was the foundation, the rock, that kept her immediate & extended family together. She was a mom, sister, grandmother, aunt, cousin, teacher, and friend to all. Even as a young girl, she took the role as caretaker of her family and this continued throughout her entire life. As the oldest daughter she kept a close eye on her siblings while growing up.
She enjoyed school and excelled academically. Although there were no organized sports for girls while Roberta was in school, she was always known for her physical strength and athletic ability. With her speed, she won many foot races, often coming across the finish line ahead of boys, some of which were state champions in track and field. She played short stop and was one of the leading hitters for many years with the infamous Lame Deer Women’s softball team. She coached track and field while teaching at St Labre, and started a walking class at Chief Dull Knife College. Physical activity played an important role in Roberta’s life and she always shared this passion with others.
As witness to her strong work ethic and family values, she put herself through college in Spearfish, SD and returned home to begin her career where she would be close to family.
With her excellent typing ability, she was asked (on the day of submission) to type the charter of a program that would eventually become the tribal college. Roberta’s family is continually reminded by community members that she was “one of the best teachers (they) ever had”. Several have shared that they not only obtained skills and training for future employment, but also learned life skills and lessons to live by. She had a special way of bringing out the best in others. She was always proud of their accomplishments and found a way to celebrate their success. This pride and encouraging support was often what led others to continue pushing forward, striving for their best.
As a mother she devoted her life to supporting her children in every way possible. She was at every school activity, sporting event, music festival or concert, and was known to be waiting in the car after dances to ensure her children a safe ride home. In support of her extended family & the community, Roberta attended every family gathering or community event possible that was within driving distance. She would show up at least a half-hour early, with her blanket, chair or seat rest, bottle of water, and packet of Ritz crackers. Whether near or far, Roberta always kept in touch with her relatives and proudly shared what news she had of births, weddings, graduations, and other accomplishments. This included the extended Harris family, Flatness & Johnson families, and the Foote family.
She held a high standard, was stern in her discipline, yet always provided the support necessary to meet and exceed one’s potential. Being known as the disciplinarian she earned the respect of not only her children and grandchildren, but of all her nieces and nephews, cousins, and many others. She was not afraid to let someone know if they were not toeing the line, yet it was known by all that Roberta would always be there with her never-ending support. After many years in this role, she perfected her own version of “the mom look” and utilized it well. Many have been the recipient of this look and recognized it; her perfect way of letting us know whatever it was that needed to be communicated with that half-smirk, half-smile, often including a little quiver of her bottom lip.
Most family holidays were spent at Roberta’s home with everyone enjoying the meal & her yummy desserts. With each holiday she would decorate her home, reveling in the joy & excitement this brought her grandkids.
Roberta took great pride in her yard, spending a great deal of time and energy planning and nurturing her trees, flowers, and lawn each year. She enjoyed spending time outside, whether she was working on her yard or simply relaxing with her family watching grandchildren play on the grass.
Roberta was such a special and giving individual that words can not begin to describe what she has meant to her family and the community. She has set a great example of living an exemplary life and will be greatly missed by all.
Roberta is survived by her son Richard (Billie) Foote Jr. of Lame Deer, MT., daughters Ricarda (Bob) Hanson of Ashland, MT. and Shawnta’ (Ross) Randall of Billings, MT., six grandchildren Christian, Ryle, Tytan, Taylor, Branlin, and Thorin, siblings Doreen Pond of Phoenix, AZ, and Lonnie Flatness of Lame Deer, MT.
Roberta is preceeded in death by her parents Kermit and Dorothy, brothers Kermit (Sonny) Jr., and Edward, sister, Sherri Lou and infant daughter Baby Shawnta’ Rae.
The family would like to extend our gratitude and thanks to those involved in Roberta’s care. We greatly appreciate everyone’s visits and support that made it possible for us to follow her wishes (she is the boss, after all) and keep her comfortable in her home as she prepared for this journey.
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
7:00 PM
Monday April 1, 2013
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Funeral Service
11:00 AM
Tuesday April 2, 2013
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Interment
Follwoing Service
Tuesday April 2, 2013
Foote Family Cemetery
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Service Schedule
Traditional Wake
7:00 PM
Monday April 1, 2013
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Funeral Service
11:00 AM
Tuesday April 2, 2013
Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Interment
Follwoing Service
Tuesday April 2, 2013
Foote Family Cemetery
Lame Deer, MT 59043
Share
Vangie Solis says
Prayers & Hugs to Roberta’s son & Daughter & Grandchildren. I am so sorry for your Loss..Loved Roberta so much. Lord send them the comforter and carry them as they get ready to lay their Mom to rest in Your Mighty Name of Jesus..Amen
Donna and Lawrence McCulloch says
We are so sorry for your loss, Roberta was a very special lady. May you find comfort in the wonderful memories you have of this fine lady.
Donna Wick says
Condolences to you and your family. Your mother was a good person.
Julie and Ron Matt says
Sorry to hear about the passing of your mom, had lots of good times with her in school and saw her most of the times that I went to Lame Deer to visit. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Morla Cole Rice says
Special prayers for a VERY Special Lady!!! My love and prayers go out to her family and friends. She was one of a kind and will be missed by us all. God Bless and know that many share your loss and grief.
J Johnson says
My sincere condolences to the family and friends of Roberta Foote. May you find comfort in your happy memories and in remembering the fine qualities you recall of Roberta Foote. Please know that God promises to be, “near to those that are broken at heart; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.” (Psalm 34; 18) Our loving Creator has promised to soon “swallow up death forever…and wipe the tears from all faces.” (Isaiah 25; 8) Please look forward to the joy of again seeing Mrs. Foote in perfect health in Paradise conditions. Faith in these promises will hopefully ease the pain of loss. Meanwhile we have the opportunity to follow Jesus’ instruction to continue to take in Bible knowledge that leads to everlasting life (John 17:3).
Robin Tall Bull says
Condolences to you and family. Your mother was a great person. Prayers to you and family.
Georgia Burns says
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Sister was a kind and awesome lady. I am so sorry for your pain and grief. May you find comfort and peace by faith, knowing she has eternal life. God Bless you all!
Bonnie Bear Don't Walk says
Sorry to hear of Roberta’s passing. She was a wonderful lady and I truely enjoyed being one of her students as DKMC. God Bless,
Danetta F. Fisher says
I am so sorry for the loss of your dear mother…She was a very nice person .
George Birtic says
I am deeply saddened by this sudden loss, a very outstanding person, teacher, and role model for Northern Cheyenne young people……she will be respected and remembered for her high standards and her lasting influence on young people on the Cheyenne Reservation……George Birtic
Mike & Marian Sioux says
I am also deeply saddened by this loss because I went to High School with her & have been friends with her since then. So our love & prayers to her family at this time.
Mike , Kristi & Girls Speelman says
We are saddened by the loss of Roberta, MaHa’oe needed another “Angel” She was a great person and teacher. we will all miss her dearly.
You are all in our Prayers.
Karen Kansala, Keith & Craig Rukavina says
Our thoughts and prayers are with Roberta’s family. She was a very special person and deeply admired by each of us for many reasons.
Mary and Jolyn Dillon says
To all of Robertas family
We are so saddened to hear about the loss. I had no idea she was even sick. My prayers and thoughts are with all of you and I wish I were there to comfort you. It is comforting knowing we will see our loved ones again and that at Easter time she could share the resurrection of Christ. Our love and sincerest sympathy to all of you from your good friends Mary and Jolyn Dillon
Jack and Carol says
We are so sad about Roberta. Jack is still in the hospital so we won’t be able to attend the funeral I am sorry to say. We will be thinking of the family though. Our prayers are with you.
Michael Burns says
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during these trying times. Your mom was sure a great lady and I will really miss her.
Belva Hauxwell says
I am so sorry to hear of Roberta’s death. I considered her a good friend and enjoyed visiting with her whenever I was in Lame Deer. I’ll miss knowing that she’s still taking care of things in Lame Deer. I know she’ll be missed by all her family and friends but I also know you’ll have good memories, as I do. Best wishes to you all.
Judy Kallenberger Kinsella & Family says
We are thinking of you during this difficult time. We enjoyed seeing Roberta at various Flatness Family picnics and will miss her pretty smile. God Bless, prayers to you.
Zane Martin says
What a warm and friendly lady Roberta was. She always made us feel welcome. Rich & Billie, you are in my prayers as is the rest of your family. God Bless.
Sara Young says
Condolences to the children and grandchildren who Roberta loved so much, you were so blessed to have a mother/ grandma so devoted to you all. She was a strong role model giving so much of herself to her family and her students. The last time I saw her she and Ricarda were at Target and she was as friendly as ever even though she was sick. She always had a few minutes to stop and chat a bit, sharing about her kids or her grandkids.
Mary Ann Bailey Lammers says
I did not know that Roberta and I had the same teaching training–business and physical education. Colstrip High School served us well. Losing a sibling so early is never easy. Doreen, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Ed and Joanne (Peters) Luther says
Dear Foote & Flatness families,
Sending our condolences in the loss of dear Roberta. Our thoughts & prayers are with you. What fond memories of grade school @ Lame Deer & then @ Colstrip together, I’m sure you recall Doreen. How quickly time passes.
May the God of all comfort be your comforter.
Jonette and Dirk Doeden says
Richard and family,
We just wanted to let you know we are thinking of you. It was such a shock to learn about your mom, she was a neat lady. I cherish the memories of her and your Grampa Kermit at our house visiting with my mom and picking you up from Dickinson. I feel so blessed to have been able to reconnect and visit with her at the sporting events this past year. She truly was a special lady. God Bless you all.
Jonette and Dirk
Ted and Gail Solomon says
So sad about Roberta’s passing. Always saw her when we went to Lame Deer and enjoyed the visits. Roberta, Doreen and Lonnie always welcomed us with open arms. Remember Kermit and Dorothy and the kids coming to the family (Flatness) picnics in the Bear Paw Mountains south of Havre – what a fun time. She will surely be missed.
Pastor Luther Yellowrobe Jr says
I was so sadden by the news of this great lady’s passing. I have good memories of her always very supportive of sporting events even back when I was in Colstrip High school. She was always there supporting the cross country and track teams and I will never forget that. I pray that the Lord give you all comfort and peace in this time of grief. May each of you remember and honor the memories of this kind and awesome lady. I will continue to hold you all up in my prayers…
Pete and Betty Jo Ellison says
Words cannot express how sorry we are for your loss. Roberta was an extraordinary human being. She always took the time to give you time. When we asked about how all the family was doing, she would just beam. We knew it was her most valued possesion. Our deepest sympathy goes out to all of her family and community. What a beautiful woman inside and out. She touched so many lives. God bless you all.
Pam Kania says
I was saddened to hear of Roberta’s death. At the same time I was happy that she was no longer suffering. She has always been a wlecoming person to me. Since 1975, when I moved to Lame Deer and then in Ashland, she would make it a point to visit when we saw each other. I appreciated her kindness and listening ear. She also would share her wisdom when it was needed. She was always very precise in everything she did. I will miss her friendliness, her caring attitudes, and just being around her. I am sure that God has already given her a “new job” as part of the welcoming committee to all those who will be coming next. I look forward to seeing her again when we meet again.
i will be praying for all of you who are grieving. Sincerely, Pam
Vonnie Becker says
To all family members of Roberta,
I was deeply saddened to hear of her passing. She was truly a wonderful person, gifted woman, and loved and respected by many. I was a student of hers at Chief Dull Knife College, and feel very fortunate to have known her. Her obituary is such an extraordinary tribute to her life and accomplishments! I cannot seem to add to all of the beautiful words of condolences written above. May she rest in MAHEO’s Hands for all eternity, Yvonne
V. Longo says
– So surprised and sorry to see the notice of Roberta’s passing. I recall her as a capable young and inspiring teacher. I think of her exactly as she is pictured ; smiling and open to friendship. She will certainly be missed. My condolences to Lonnie and family.
Maus says
Words cann’t say how i feel for the family, just know that my prayers are with you.
ROBERTA H ROTH says
my sympathy to the family. she will be missed but now she is in a better place.
Bud and Audi Moran says
Our hearts were saddened today as we read of Roberta’s passing in our local paper (Missoulian). Oh, the memories that we have of the family gatherings up at the Rowland’s and the softball games/tourney’s – Roberta was always there. We didn’t visit much after we left Lame Deer in 1985, but we would exchange Christmas cards. That was our way of staying in touch. We’d like to extend our prayers and love to the family. Roberta accomplished much and will be remembered for years to come . . . God Bless! Bud and Audi Moran
Amber and Gary Ramsey says
We were so sorry to hear of Roberta’s passing. Roberta was such a wonderful and strong woman. I know how important all of you were to her. She always had great stories of either her children or grandchildren. Talk about a parent and grandparent that put on some miles following sports seasons. May our thoughts and prayers bring some added comfort in this difficult time.
Bradley Johnson says
Richard and Family
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Visiting Lame Deer and meeting you parents was a highlight for me during our time together in college. You have an awesome family and great friends! So sorry for your loss, take care.