William (Bill) T. Chase, 89, passed away Thursday, October 3, 2024.  Bill was born February 1, 1935, in Loup City, Nebraska to Hal & Bess Chase.  He joked that his father named him "Bill" because he came at the first of the month.  Growing up Bill sang in the choir, played in the band and varsity basketball.  He enjoyed Boy Scouts and traveled on the train with his troop to Valley Forge for the National Jamboree.  Earned the honor of Eagle Scout and later served co-leader for his son's troop in Rapid.

After graduating from Broken Bow High School, he went to college and served his country with the US Army in Japan as a company clerk. Bill met the love of his life, Claudia (Kelly) Allen while attending the University of Nebraska. He graduated with a degree in Agriculture Business.

Bill and Claudia married in 1960 and began farming with his family at Batesland, SD.  During those early years Bill also planted trees for the Conservation District while Claudia taught school.  He was appointed by the Governor to serve on the SD Wheat Commission.  Later they moved to Rapid City to begin a career selling real estate while continuing to farm.  In addition to being a licensed realtor and appraiser, he also became a home builder as Bill Chase Homes, Inc.

During their 64 years of marriage, Bill proudly belonged to the Rapid City Shriners, Batesland Fire Department, and First Presbyterian Church where he held the position of Elder and chaired the Finance Committee.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing in the Black Hills, and reading westerns.

Survivors include his wife, Claudia; son Bill Jr (Kathy) Chase of McIntosh; Granddaughter Dr. Alexandra (Jeremy) Chase-White of Chamberlain; Grandson Mitch Chase of McIntosh; Great Grandson Patrick White; Sister Jane McMillan of Rapid City; Sister-in-law Mary Chase of Omaha; numerous nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents Hal and Bess Chase; Brothers Hal Chase Jr and Joe Chase; Sister Annette Schubach.

Friends and family are invited to a visitation from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 6, 2024 at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.  Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 7 at First Presbyterian Church in Rapid City with refreshments and a time of fellowship to follow.

Private burial following later at the Allen Pioneer Cemetery near Ft. Calhoun, NE.