Bill was born on April 29, 1961 to Melvin and Madeline (Bruegger) Grote of Lusk, Wyoming. He grew up on the family ranch and graduated from Sioux County High School where he was a state champion wrestler. Bill worked for a short time in Montana where he made lifelong friends before returning to the family ranch north of Harrison. He later married Pam Colgate and they had a son, Lane William, who was the pride and joy of Bill’s life.

 

He was an avid outdoorsman and took great pleasure in sharing his passions with his son Lane. They enjoyed countless hours camping, hunting, fishing, roping, golfing, and just enjoying the beauty of nature, often accompanied by Bill’s numerous close friends. Many times these outings were followed by a ruthless game of pool or a cutthroat game of poker. One recent adventure took him to Minnesota on a successful black bear hunt. However nothing could surpass the great pride he took in watching and encouraging Lane in his various sporting events and activities.

 

Bill was a member of the Redeemer Lutheran Church. He was also a Director on the Sioux County Fair Board and the Rural Fire District.