William W. Waldschmidt

May 23, 1932 - September 23, 2014

Bill Waldschmidt, age 82 of Ogallala, passed away September 23, 2014 at his home in Ogallala. Bill was born May 23, 1932 at Ellis, Kansas to Alex and Mary (Begler) Waldschmidt, Sr. Bill attended country school in Ellis. Bill farmed for a number of years in Kansas before moving to Colorado in 1956, where he worked in warehousing. On February 12, 1976, Bill married Cleopha Kreutzer at Aurora, Colorado. The couple lived in Colorado until retirement, at which time they decided to build a home on the north side of Lake McConaughy in 1986. While living at the lake, they became avid boaters and made countless memories with family and friends alike. Cleo passed away in April of 2013, and not long after, Bill moved to Ogallala. Among Bill’s enjoyments were hunting, boating, traveling and taking care of his yard. Bill’s yard was a great source of pride for him, and he spent countless hours making sure it was perfectly manicured. He also loved animals, particularly his old horse, Joker and their beloved dog, Pepper. Bill loved telling jokes and was recognized as “a character” just about everywhere he went. A memorial has been established in his memory. Condolences may be shared at prairiehillsfuneralhome.com, where the service will be streamed live for those unable to attend. Bill was preceded in death by his wife and 4 brothers, Lawrence, Fritz, Walter and Alex, Jr. Survivors include his children, Marie (Brian) Gillies of Sun City West, AZ, Bill Waldschmidt, Jr. of Thornton, CO, Andrea Oatman of Elizabeth, CO; stepchildren, Bernie DeForest of Ogallala, David V. Merritt of Ogallala; 7 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren; 2 sisters, Mary Ann Carlson of Thornton, CO, Gladys (Corky) Gassman of Lemoyne; brother, David Waldschmidt (Debbie) of Lemoyne; and many other relatives and friends. Memorial services will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. at the Prairie Hills Funeral Home Chapel in Ogallala with Father Bryan Ernest officiating. Inurnment will be in the Ogallala Cemetery. Prairie Hills Funeral Home of Ogallala is in charge of arrangements.