William “Bill” Arthur Traube, 72, passed away Dec. 1, 2017, in Chandler, Arizona.

Bill was born in Lincoln on Dec. 22, 1944, and grew up in Wilber. He enjoyed his childhood and often reminisced about the memories and mischief he enjoyed with his childhood friends, with whom he stayed in contact. Bill adopted the nickname “Wad” and was well known for his adventures with that alias.

Bill’s career included the Nebraska Fisheries, North Platte Police Department and real estate and property management upon moving to Arizona in 1979.

Bill had many joys in life, including exploring the outdoors, riding quads, fishing, hunting, shooting, cooking, sightseeing, traveling, music, sports, jumble puzzles and an afternoon iced tea. He enjoyed his Czech heritage and cuisine, such as kolaches, summer sausage and Wilber rye bread.

He always enjoyed just being outdoors with his sons. Bill enjoyed time spent with his family and was an active grandfather, enjoying his grandchildren, Blake and Kendyl, and their many activities including sports, piano recitals, performances and graduations. He had a great fondness for his toddler granddaughter, Adilyn.

Bill had a sharp wit and a great sense of humor. He always had a joke to share or story to tell to put a smile on your face. Bill’s most incredible talent was to hear a song and sit down at the piano and play it by ear. He provided years of entertainment to his friends, family and even strangers with his piano playing skills. His mom’s favorite request was “Beer Barrel Polka,” and his daughter loved “Johnny B. Goode” and many others. Bill enjoyed road trips in his truck or on his Harley and was notorious for dropping by unannounced, much to the surprise and happiness of others. He loved a good Western movie and he wasn’t shy about sharing his opinion while watching sports.

Bill was preceded in death by his mother, Frances Havranek Traube; cousin, Dennis Havranek; and ex-wife, Sherry Van Wagoner.

Bill is survived by his sons, Brett (Kelly Glennen) and Eric (Meridith Matschull); daughter, Lisa; grandchildren, Blake, Kendyl and Adilyn; several cousins, many friends and ex-wife and mother of his children, Carol Leach Traube.

Memorials are suggested in Bill’s name to the American Cancer Society or Hospice of the Valley.

Private services will be at a later date. Cremation was chosen.