Walter R. “Bob” Frey of Mitchell, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home on Wednesday, November 30, 2016. In accordance with his wish that no one loses a day of work, there will be no service or ceremony. He will be cremated then interred at Mitchell Valley Cemetery. Jones Mortuary in Mitchell is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.jones-mortuary.com.

Bob was born in Scottsbluff on February 1, 1928, the oldest child of Emil and Gladys (Strey) Frey. He graduated from Mitchell High School in 1946 and joined the Navy that same year, serving in Guam and Saipan. Following his discharge in 1948, Bob returned to the valley, marrying Patricia (Simpson) Frey and farming in the Morrill/Henry area. An unexpected recall to active duty in 1950 returned Bob to the Navy to serve in Korea and, as he would relate, made him “afraid of mailboxes” from then on. Upon his release from active duty in 1952, Bob and his young family moved to the East where he helped his father-in-law, Ed Simpson, manage his race horses, racing them at numerous tracks along the eastern seaboard. In 1955, Bob decided to return with his family to the Platte Valley and resumed farming. An article in a local paper not long after his return to farming compliments the height of his corn. Unfortunately, as was the case with many other farm families during the early 80s, Bob and Pat were unable to continue on the farm. After a period as a cowboy on Snake Creek Ranch, in 1985 Bob was offered and accepted a position as the Manager of Mitchell Irrigation District, where he served until his retirement in 2000. He would return not long after to work there as an employee up until his death on Monday.

Bob has been, and will ever be, many things to many people. Husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, horseman, dog lover, tiller of the land, deliverer of water, wise counselor, curator, narrator, accountant, heavy equipment master, Guardian, Mason, Veteran, Red Ryder and, when necessary, weatherman. Bob involved himself in many activities. A past president of the Saddle Club, member of Masonic Lodge #263, the Federated Church of Mitchell, the American Legion Post #124, Legacy of the Plains museum, Jobs Daughters Guardian, 4-H sponsor, and VFW. Bob chose not to simply show up, but to act. Through the years, Bob supported his grandchildren in their many and varied activities, participated in various duties for the Legion, Church, and Lodge, and was ready and willing to serve in any capacity necessary at the Mitchell Irrigation District. A longtime resident of the Platte Valley, Bob’s loss will be deeply felt, his passing leaving a void that typifies the quality of the ever-diminishing number of his generation.

Bob is survived by his brother Dick Frey of Scottsbluff; children, Carey Ann Brown of Mitchell, Stephanie Frey of Ogallala and Rob Frey of Rapid City, SD; five grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; wife Pat; and sister, Twila Brungardt.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the many people of the valley who befriended our father over the years, particularly Pete Unrein and the staff and board members at Mitchell Irrigation District. Your kindness, support, and love will never be forgotten.

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