John William “Bill” Harder

John William “Bill” Harder was born Aug. 23, 1938 in Spokane, to John Jacob and Ellen Harder.

He was raised on the family cattle ranch where he developed a love for cattle and horses.

Bill attended Ritzville schools where he was a standout football player and track athlete.

After graduation from Ritzville High School in 1956, he attended Colorado State University, but soon returned home to his passion, cattle ranching, becoming the third generation to operate Harder Ranches.

In 1960, Bill married Marilyn Rogel.

They lived on a family ranch in Hooper for six years before moving back to the home ranch near Ritzville where they raised their three children, Robyn, Lisa and John.

Bill was a highly respected cattleman and admired by many colleagues in the cattle industry. He primarily focused on producing Hereford cattle and later integrated the Angus breed into his herd as well.

Bill enjoyed drives through the ranch, rounding up cattle, and Sunday team roping at the Ritzville Rodeo grounds.

He was an avid football fan, and especially liked attending WSU Cougar football games with friends.

He proudly followed his children and grandchildren’s athletic events.

He was a founding member, served as president of the Ritzville Rodeo Association and was instrumental in building the new rodeo grounds in 1970.

He was an original member of Project 56 that helped fund an all-weather track for Ritzville High School.

Bill died April 19, from complications of Parkinson’s disease.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 56 years, Marilyn; children; Robyn and Jim Rose, Lisa and Jim Arata, and John J. and Kris Harder; grandchildren; Shaun and Emma Rose, Brett Rose, Drew Rose, Jack Arata, Peter Arata, Kallie Harder, John Jay Harder, Jerod Harder; and great-granddaughter, Riley Rose.

It was his greatest joy to be surrounded by his family.

Visitation will be Thursday, April 27, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday, April 28, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Danekas Funeral Home in Ritzville.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Bill’s life will be held May 13, at 1 p.m. at the American Legion Building located at 106 West Broadway Avenue in Ritzville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Ritzville Volunteer Ambulance Association or the Ritzville Rodeo Association.

Condolences may be left at http://www.danekasfh.com.