Waymann Wild

The life of a cowboy, Waymann Marvin Wild, began on December 4, 1933 in a sod house about 7 miles north of Vetal, South Dakota. He was the only child born to Fred and Zola (Grass) Wild. His youth was spent ranching alongside his folks, learning and loving the cowboy way of life, near Slim Buttes on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.

Upon graduating from Chadron Prep in1952, he asked for his sixteen year old sweetheart's hand in marriage. In July of the same year, Waymann and Helen (Laue) were wed and remained by one another's side for 63 years until Helen's death in July of 2015. To this union were born two sons, Jess and Dan, and one daughter Molly.

Waymann wore many hats over his lifetime: commercial pilot, county commissioner, and real estate broker; but the one he was most proud of was being a rancher. He was always there if a neighbor needed an emergency C-section during calving season or to take out a cancer eye. Whether it was feeding, fixing or chasing a cow down, Waymann was the definition of a "top hand"

The best years of his life were spent raising cain, cattle, and his kids on the home place at Slim Buttes.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Zola, and his wife Helen.

Survivors include Daughter, Molly (John) Hahn; Sons, Dan (Millie) Wild, and Jess (Dee) Wild all of Chadron. He also is survived by 11 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, and 1 great great grandchild on the way.

A memorial has been established. Donations may be sent to Chamberlain Chapel, PO Box 970, Chadron, NE 69337.

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