William Ray Fanter "Smitty", age 85 of North Platte, Nebraska passed away on August 5, 2024 at Great Plains Health.  He was born in Lexington, Nebraska to Walter and Cassie (Robinson) Fanter on May 3, 1939.

William attended school in Lexington until moving to North Platte in 1961 at which time he married Wilma Halouska on June 4, 1961.  They were married for 56 years.  William helped build I-80 by running heavy equipment then worked for the North Platte Water Department for 7 years. William then began working for the Union Pacific Railroad where he was employed for 25 years.  He enjoyed black smithing where he made many one-of-a-kind knives.

He is preceded in death by his parents; 2 sisters, Patricia and Orvilla; and his wife Wilma.

Survivors include sons, Ronald (Sandy), Bud (Becky) Brant (Jeanne), Max (Cindy), and Greg.  Along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; special friend, Deborah Taylor.

Memorials are suggested to the family where they will divide the memorials to the Lincoln County Historical Museum and The Loup Valley Cemetery.   Online condolences and live streaming of the service may be shared at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home www.adamsswanson.com .

Memorial services will be at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, August 15, 2024 at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home.  Burial will follow at the Loup Valley Cemetery, Stapleton, Nebraska. Rev. Bob Deardoff will be officiating.  Visitation will be from  noon – 7 P.M., Wednesday, with family receiving friends 5-7, at Adams & Swanson Funeral Home who is assisting the family.