Rob grew up with a passion for mechanics, spending his childhood building model cars and gas-powered airplanes with early dreams of becoming a mechanical engineer. He was also a talented singer in his youth, performing with the Lincoln Boys Choir at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York City. He continued his love for music later in life as a member of the Southwood Men’s Chorus.
After attending the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Rob pursued a career with the railroad. He worked as a locomotive engineer for the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Railroad, traveling across Nebraska for 38 years until his retirement. He also dedicated many years of service to the railroad’s safety committee.
An active outdoorsman, Rob was an avid water skier, snow skier, and deer and upland game hunter who spent many fall weekends in the woods. In 2007, he married the neighbor, Jan. The two first met after Rob invited Jan and her children to go water skiing.
Rob loved to travel throughout his life. His favorite trips included a journey to Australia with his life long friend Leon in his early twenties, several Caribbean scuba diving trips, and a tour of Italy. Following his retirement, he spent his free time socializing with friends and cooking for those he loved.
Robert is survived by his wife, Janice, of Lincoln, NE; children, Matthew (Leigh) Shaner of Lincoln, NE, Derek (Elizabeth) Shaner of Davenport, NE, and Missy Jo Shaner of Lincoln, NE; his siblings, Laura (Neale) Shaner of Fort Calhoun, NE, Randy (Cheri) Shaner of Ogden, Utah, Janet Akerman of Lincoln, NE, and George (Cathy) Shaner of Lincoln, NE; 14 grand-children; stepchildren, Laura (Tyler) Guenzel of Laramie, WY, and Andrew (Betsy) Stordahl of York, PA; brother-in-law, J.D. Schafer; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents, sister, Karalee Schafer, and son, Benjamin Shaner.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at Southwood Lutheran Church (4301 Wilderness Hills Blvd, Lincoln, NE 68516). A visitation with family present will be held from 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. on Monday, July 13, 2026, at Roper and Sons South Chapel (3950 Hohensee Dr, Lincoln, NE 68516).
Memorials are designated to the Lincoln Food Bank or your charity of choice.