Susan Dee Robbins lived a life that many would consider extraordinary, yet she chose to remain largely out of the spotlight. She became known primarily as the devoted wife of legendary actor Dale Robertson, one of Hollywood’s most beloved Western stars. While her husband commanded attention on screen, Susan Dee Robbins preferred a quieter existence centered around their ranch and family life.
Her story represents more than just being married to a celebrity. Susan Dee Robbins embodied the values of dedication, privacy, and authentic living in an era when fame often overshadowed personal relationships. She built a meaningful life away from Hollywood’s glitz, choosing instead the honest work and simple pleasures of ranch living. This choice defined her character and shaped the lasting legacy she left behind.
The relationship between Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson demonstrated that true partnership transcends the spotlight. Together, they created a home that honored traditional values while navigating the unique challenges of celebrity life. Her influence on Robertson’s later years was profound, helping him transition from Hollywood icon to contented rancher.
Quick Biography of Susan Dee Robbins
Susan Dee Robbins was born in the United States during the mid-20th century. She maintained remarkable privacy throughout her life, with limited public records about her early years. Unlike many who sought fame through association with celebrities, Susan Dee Robbins deliberately avoided the limelight.
Before meeting Dale Robertson, she lived an ordinary American life. Her background prepared her well for the down-to-earth lifestyle she would eventually share with her famous husband. Susan Dee Robbins valued substance over style, authenticity over artifice, and private happiness over public recognition.
She became Dale Robertson’s second wife in 1980, entering his life during a transitional period. Their marriage lasted over three decades until Robertson’s death in 2013. During this time, Susan Dee Robbins proved herself as a steadfast companion and partner in every sense.
Early Life and Career of Susan Dee Robbins
Details about Susan Dee Robbins’ early life remain scarce due to her preference for privacy. She grew up in an era when traditional American values shaped most families. Her upbringing instilled in her a strong work ethic and appreciation for simple living.
Susan Dee Robbins did not pursue a career in entertainment or seek public attention. Instead, she focused on building a meaningful personal life. Her professional activities before marriage remain largely undocumented, which was entirely consistent with her private nature.
What defined Susan Dee Robbins was not her career but her character. She possessed qualities that would later make her an ideal partner for a man transitioning away from Hollywood. Her ability to create a stable, loving home environment became her greatest contribution.
How Susan Dee Robbins Met Dale Robertson
Susan Dee Robbins met Dale Robertson during the late 1970s when the actor was already an established star. The exact circumstances of their first meeting have been kept private, respecting their desire for personal boundaries. What is known is that their connection was immediate and profound.
Dale Robertson had been previously married and divorced when he encountered Susan Dee Robbins. At that point in his life, he was seeking something different from Hollywood relationships. Susan Dee Robbins offered him genuine companionship free from the pressures of fame and industry expectations.
Their courtship led to marriage in 1980, marking the beginning of a partnership that would last over thirty years. Susan Dee Robbins brought stability and comfort to Robertson’s life. She understood his need for a refuge from the demanding entertainment world and provided exactly that sanctuary.
Married Life on the Ranch
The marriage of Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson centered around their ranch in Oklahoma. This wasn’t merely a residence but a working ranch that required daily attention and care. Susan Dee Robbins embraced this lifestyle completely, proving herself capable of handling the physical demands of ranch work.
Life on the ranch meant early mornings, hard work, and close connection to the land. Susan Dee Robbins didn’t view this as a sacrifice but as a fulfilling way of life. She and Robertson worked side by side, managing livestock and maintaining their property together.
Their marriage thrived in this environment precisely because both valued the same things. Susan Dee Robbins found joy in the routine of ranch life, the changing seasons, and the honest labor it required. This shared commitment strengthened their bond and created lasting happiness.
Life on the Ranch
The ranch where Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson made their home was located in Yukon, Oklahoma. This sprawling property allowed them to raise horses and cattle while living according to their values. Susan Dee Robbins took an active role in all aspects of ranch management.
Daily life included feeding animals, mending fences, and handling the countless tasks that keep a ranch running. Susan Dee Robbins proved herself capable and willing to do whatever was necessary. She found genuine satisfaction in this hands-on lifestyle that connected her to nature and tradition.
The ranch also served as a sanctuary where Dale Robertson could escape Hollywood pressures. Susan Dee Robbins created an environment where her husband could simply be himself rather than performing for fans or industry professionals. This haven became central to their happiness and Robertson’s well-being.
Family and Children
Susan Dee Robbins did not have biological children with Dale Robertson. However, Robertson had a daughter from his previous marriage. Susan Dee Robbins approached this family dynamic with grace and acceptance, welcoming Robertson’s existing family connections.
The couple’s ranch became a gathering place for extended family and friends. Susan Dee Robbins excelled at hospitality, making visitors feel welcome and comfortable. Her warmth created a home environment that nurtured relationships and built lasting memories.
Though they didn’t expand their immediate family, Susan Dee Robbins and Robertson built a rich life filled with meaningful relationships. Their focus remained on each other and the life they were building together. This partnership became their primary family unit and greatest source of joy.
The Partnership of Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson
The relationship between Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson exemplified true partnership. They functioned as a team in every aspect of their lives. Whether managing the ranch or navigating Robertson’s continued public appearances, they supported each other completely.
Susan Dee Robbins understood the demands of Robertson’s legacy without being intimidated by it. She allowed him space to maintain connections to his career while keeping their private life sacred. This balance required wisdom and confidence that Susan Dee Robbins possessed naturally.
Robertson frequently credited Susan Dee Robbins with bringing him happiness and peace in his later years. She provided emotional support that enabled him to age gracefully and contentedly. Their partnership demonstrated that celebrity marriages could succeed when built on mutual respect and shared values.
Life After Dale Robertson’s Passing
Dale Robertson passed away on February 27, 2013, at the age of 89. His death marked a profound transition for Susan Dee Robbins. She had spent over three decades as his wife and partner, and suddenly faced life alone.
Susan Dee Robbins handled her grief privately, consistent with her lifelong preference for staying out of public view. She continued living on their ranch, maintaining the property and lifestyle they had built together. This continuity provided comfort and kept Robertson’s memory alive.
In her widowhood, Susan Dee Robbins focused on preserving her husband’s legacy while honoring the life they shared. She remained connected to the equestrian community and those who had known them both. Her dignity during this difficult period reflected the strength she had always possessed.
The Book: Bucking Hollywood by Susan Dee Robbins
After Dale Robertson’s death, Susan Dee Robbins undertook a significant project to honor his memory. She authored a book titled “Bucking Hollywood” that provided insights into their life together. This represented a departure from her usual privacy but served an important purpose.
The book offered fans and admirers a glimpse into the real Dale Robertson beyond his screen persona. Susan Dee Robbins shared personal stories, photographs, and memories that revealed the man behind the cowboy image. Her writing presented an intimate portrait only she could provide.
“Bucking Hollywood” became Susan Dee Robbins’ gift to those who loved her husband’s work. Through this book, she ensured that Robertson’s true character and their authentic relationship would be remembered accurately. It stands as a testament to their partnership and the values they shared.
Legacy of Susan Dee Robbins
The legacy of Susan Dee Robbins extends beyond her role as Dale Robertson’s wife. She demonstrated how to maintain personal integrity while connected to celebrity. Her choices showed that it’s possible to support a famous spouse without losing one’s own identity.
Susan Dee Robbins proved that meaningful life doesn’t require public recognition. She found fulfillment in daily work, committed partnership, and authentic living. These choices created a legacy of substance that transcends temporary fame.
Her influence on Dale Robertson’s later life and legacy cannot be overstated. Susan Dee Robbins provided the stability and love that allowed him to age gracefully and contentedly. She helped shape how he would be remembered, not just as an actor but as a complete person.
Lessons from Susan Dee Robbins’ Story
The life of Susan Dee Robbins offers valuable lessons for modern times. She showed that privacy remains possible even when connected to public figures. Her deliberate choice to avoid unnecessary attention demonstrated strength rather than shyness.
Susan Dee Robbins taught that genuine partnership requires mutual respect and shared values. Her marriage succeeded because both partners prioritized their relationship over external pressures. They built happiness on a foundation of common purpose and authentic living.
Perhaps most importantly, Susan Dee Robbins demonstrated that fulfillment comes from how we live rather than how we’re perceived. She chose substance over image, authentic work over empty glamour, and private contentment over public acclaim. These choices created a life of genuine meaning and lasting impact.
Table: Timeline of Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson’s Life Together
| Year | Event |
| Late 1970s | Susan Dee Robbins meets Dale Robertson |
| 1980 | Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson marry |
| 1980s-1990s | Couple establishes their life on the Oklahoma ranch |
| 1990s-2000s | They continue ranching while Robertson makes occasional appearances |
| 2013 | Dale Robertson passes away at age 89 |
| Post-2013 | Susan Dee Robbins continues managing the ranch |
| Post-2013 | Susan Dee Robbins authors “Bucking Hollywood” |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Susan Dee Robbins?
Susan Dee Robbins was the second wife of legendary Western actor Dale Robertson, married from 1980 until his death in 2013.
When did Susan Dee Robbins marry Dale Robertson?
Susan Dee Robbins married Dale Robertson in 1980, beginning a partnership that lasted over thirty years.
Did Susan Dee Robbins have children?
Susan Dee Robbins did not have biological children with Dale Robertson, though he had a daughter from a previous marriage.
Where did Susan Dee Robbins live?
Susan Dee Robbins lived on a working ranch in Yukon, Oklahoma, which she managed with her husband.
What did Susan Dee Robbins do for a living?
Susan Dee Robbins primarily managed the ranch she shared with Dale Robertson and later authored a book about their life together.
What is “Bucking Hollywood”?
“Bucking Hollywood” is a book written by Susan Dee Robbins about her life with Dale Robertson and his career.
Is Susan Dee Robbins still alive?
Limited public information exists about Susan Dee Robbins’ current status due to her preference for privacy.
How long were Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson married?
Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson were married for over 33 years, from 1980 until his death in 2013.
What was Susan Dee Robbins’ role on the ranch?
Susan Dee Robbins actively participated in all aspects of ranch management, including caring for livestock and maintaining the property.
Why did Susan Dee Robbins write a book?
Susan Dee Robbins wrote “Bucking Hollywood” to preserve Dale Robertson’s legacy and share their authentic story with his fans.
Conclusion
Susan Dee Robbins lived a remarkable life defined by choice, commitment, and authenticity. She deliberately stepped away from the spotlight to create something more valuable: a genuine partnership and meaningful existence. Her story reminds us that true success isn’t measured by fame or public recognition but by the quality of relationships we build and the integrity with which we live.
The marriage between Susan Dee Robbins and Dale Robertson demonstrated that love transcends celebrity when rooted in shared values. They built happiness on mutual respect, honest work, and dedication to each other. Their ranch became more than a home; it was a testament to their priorities and the life they chose together.
Today, Susan Dee Robbins’ legacy lives on through her book and the memories of those who knew the couple. She showed that supporting a famous spouse doesn’t require sacrificing your own identity. Instead, she maintained her privacy and dignity while being Dale Robertson’s devoted partner, proving that it’s possible to have both.
The lessons from Susan Dee Robbins’ life remain relevant in our image-obsessed culture. She chose substance over style, authentic living over artificial glamour, and private happiness over public validation. These choices created a legacy far more meaningful than temporary fame could ever provide, inspiring us to examine what truly matters in our own lives.
Hi, I’m Sarah Whitmore I’ve been writing for over 6 years, exploring the beautiful world of names and the stories they carry. My passion lies in uncovering cultural roots, modern trends, and unique ideas that make every name special.
Through NamesNova, I share guides, insights, and inspiration to help you find the perfect names—whether for babies, characters, or creative projects. For me, every name is more than just words; it’s an identity, a legacy, and sometimes even a dream.
When I’m not writing, you’ll probably find me with a book in hand, walking nature trails, or experimenting with new coffee blends.