William “Bill” Earl White son of Edward and Pauline (Schufeldt) White was born on April 22, 1943, in Hyannis NE. Bill entered eternal rest on December 13, 2020. Bill worked on area ranches from the time he was nine years old. He trapped rats in the winter-time for spending money and to help get him through school. Bill attended Hyannis High school in Hyannis NE.
Rita Sue Roby daughter of Kenneth and Winnie (Wickham) Roby was born on October 29, 1945, in Oshkosh NE. Rita entered eternal rest on December 19, 2020. Winnie moved her young family Jan and Rita in 1948, to the Sterns ranch north of Ashby. This would be where Rita grew up and would call home for a good portion of her life. Rita attended St. Agnes boarding school, in Alliance NE.
Bill and Rita crossed paths at one of the Ashby dances, formed a relationship, and were united in marriage on March 24, 1962 in Bingham NE. To this union 3 children were born Larry, Laura and Greg.
The young couple worked on several area ranches before moving back to the Sterns place. Bill and Rita were inseparable and worked hand in hand at raising cattle, horses, and some good dogs over the years.
As their kids grew older and started high school rodeo, Rita picked up a camera and started taking pictures this gave her something to pass the time during those days and would later come in handy as a second income for the family. They showed horses and cut for many years, Bill made some good ones and Rita always had a picture of them. They made numerous friends over the years while showing horses and always had time to help kids learn to ride rope and cut. A short 25 years later they relocated to Ashby, Rita continued developing her craft items and Bill started driving the school bus, Rita drove a bus for the Hyannis school district as well. They both enjoyed the kids and listening to stories the kids would tell on the rides. The couple never knew a stranger, people were always welcomed into their home, Rita always had time to fix a good meal.
Bill and Rita were preceded in death by their parents, Bills brothers Bernie and Edward, and their son Larry.
They are survived by Bills brothers Butch (Chuck) White, Tom (Ellen) White and Rita’s sister Jan (Vance) Douglas, their children, daughter Laura (Dan) Naber, son Greg (Amanda) White, numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Throughout their lives they nurtured and helped many other kids across the country they would call their own.
Graveside services will be Monday, December 28, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. at the Ashby Cemetery. The public is invited and with COVId-19 concerns, if you would prefer to remain in your car during the service the family would welcome you to do so.
Memorials may be given to Grant County Ambulance Fund or Sandhills Fire and Rescue.
Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com.