William "Bill" George Aeby

William (Bill) George Aeby, 69, passed away on October 8, 2025, at Dundy County Hospital. He was a beloved father, grandfather,brother, uncle, and friend to all who knew him.

Bill was born on March 26, 1956, to Chester and Eileen (Hemsley) Aeby in Huntington, New York. Throughout his life, he lived in New York, California, Colorado, Georgia, and finally in Benkelman, Nebraska, where he graduated from Dundy County High School.

After high school, Bill joined the carnival, traveling across the country and working in the photography booth; a job he truly enjoyed. In 1980, his son Billy was born, and Bill chose to make Benkelman his home. He worked as the maintenance man at the Hester Home for 35 years, where his knack for fixing anything and everything was appreciated.

In 1982, Bill married Judy Hendrix, and together they welcomed their daughter, Stephanie, in 1983. They later divorced.

Bill enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, motocross, and cheering for the Dallas Cowboys. Many of his fondest memories were made with friends and family at Rock Creek and Enders Lake. He also loved following Billy’s motocross races and spending time with his grandchildren, whom he cherished deeply. Bill often said his greatest achievements in life were his children and grandchildren.

Bill is survived by his son, Billy (Leslie) Aeby of Imperial, NE; his daughter Stephanie Barnhart of Benkelman, NE; sisters Rosemary (Ruben) James of Pelham, AL, Terry (Jim) Smith of Duluth, MN, and Vicky (Mark) Hanes of Benkelman, NE; and five grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Chester and Eileen Aeby; his brother, Chet Aeby Jr.; and his granddaughter, Lily Whittington.

Bill will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

The family will gather privately at a later date to honor Bill’s life and scatter his ashes.