A Funeral Mass for William L. 'Duke' Hobbs, age 75 of O'Neill, NE formerly of Ewing, NE will be 10:30 AM Monday, January 31, 2022 at St. Peter's Catholic Church in Ewing. Burial will follow in St. Peter's Catholic Cemetery in Ewing, NE. Visitation will be on Sunday from 3-5 P.M at St. Peter's Catholic Church followed by a 5 PM Parish Rosary. Duke passed away on Wednesday, January 26, 2022 at his home in O'Neill. Memorials may be directed to the family for future designation. Arrangements are entrusted to Biglin's Mortuary of O'Neill.

William Lee 'Duke' Hobbs was born February 10, 1946 to William A and Arlene (Schiffbauer) Hobbs in Ewing, NE.Duke attended Ewing High School and graduated in 1964.As a child, he enjoyed playing marbles and helping his mother with tasks. Duke was a talented athlete, he loved playing football and baseball. At one time, he was known as the 'Fastest Man in Holt County.' Being in and on the water was a great joy for Duke as well, whether it be fishing or forming human pyramids while water skiing with his buddies.

Duke met and later married Molly Beth Johnson on October 31, 1965. The couple were blessed with four children: Holly Jean, Charles William, Emily Jane, and Julie Anna. Duke and Molly raised their children just outside of Ewing, NE. There he continued the family tradition of being a hard working cattleman.

Duke had a passion for horse racing, a passion that took him all over the country. He won Iowa Breeder of the Year multiple times, and also a TOBA National Award, honoring the achievements of Thoroughbred owners and breeders. Even through his many achievements, he was most satisfied watching his horses graze at his ranch.

Duke received his pilot's license in 1968 and had an immense passion for flying. The peace and the freedom that went along with being alone in the sky, brought Duke happiness. He built and maintained many friendships at the O'Neill Airport and passed on his passion for flying to his son and son-in-law.

Duke was a quiet man who never wanted attention from his generous philanthropy, he was just drawn to help where he could. In his later years, Duke and Molly enjoyed traveling, spending time with grandchildren, and attending ball games. Duke was a loving father and patient grandfather. He leaves a legacy of faith, hard work, dedication, and generosity.

Duke is survived by his bride of 56 years, Molly Beth (Johnson) Hobbs of O'Neill, NE along with their four children and families, Holly Boeka of Birmingham, AL and her children Forrest, Gunnar, August, and great granddaughter, Natalie; Charles Hobbs of O'Neill, NE and his children Tate and Caleb; Emily (Allen) Hagaman of Delray Beach, FL and their children, Frank and Frederick; and Julie (Kevin) Barlow of O'Neill and their children, Charles, Samuel, Annabelle, Benjamin and Isaac; one brother, James (Kristen) Hobbs of Spearfish, SD; six sisters, Patricia Brion (Joe) of Omaha, NE; Jeanne Fry of Norfolk, NE; Teena (John) Moser of Clearwater, NE; Becky (Dan) Koenig of Ewing, NE; Teresa (Randy) Hawk of Gretna, NE; Germaine (Todd) Bollwitt of Ewing, NE; Sister-in-law, Sara Ahlmann of Norfolk, NE; many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Duke was preceded in death by his parents, William A. and Arlene Hobbs; Step-mother, Judith Hobbs, sister, Sharon Steskal; brothers-in-law, Ron Brion, Jack Fry, and Harold Ahlmann.