Robert “Bob” Boyd Schantz entered eternal rest at the Wisner Care Center, Monday, August 31, 2026, after a valiant fight with cancer, with family at his side.

Bob was born on December 9, 1955, in West Point, Nebraska, to Boyd and Evelyn (Erb) Schantz. He was warmly welcomed by older sister, Carolyn, and was soon joined by sister, Marilyn, and brother, Thomas. He received his education at country school District 21 near Bancroft, Nebraska, and Wisner-Pilger High School, graduating in 1974.

His formative years were spent first on the farm near Bancroft. In 1970, the family moved to the Schantz farm east of Wisner. In his teens, he raised rabbits. After high school, he worked on the farm, helping with crops and raising hogs. Later he went on to work at several farm jobs before beginning work at Colonial Haven Nursing Home in Beemer, where he remained for over twenty-six years. During his employment, he worked in maintenance, tended the gardens, kept the sidewalks clean in winter, and transported countless residents to doctor’s visits from Pender and West Point to Lincoln, Norfolk, and Omaha. All were transported safely with careful attention. If you asked him how to get to many of the clinics and hospitals, he could tell you exactly how to get there, and which entrance was best.

Bob will be remembered for his ability to grow beautiful roses, love of cats, and his quiet presence. He was preceded in death by his parents, Boyd and Evelyn. He is survived by siblings, nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews:

• Carolyn (Tim) Lichti of Goshen, Indiana,
  • Jason (Lori) Lichti of Harrisonburg, Virginia
    • Joshua Lichti
    • Jesse Lichti
    • John Lichti
  • Nathan (Jennifer) Christophel Lichti of Seattle, Washington
    • Sofia Christophel Lichti
• Marilyn (David) Bloom of Laurel, Nebraska,
  • Jordan (Traci) Bloom of Laurel
    • Kylee Bloom
    • Kimber Bloom
    • Mila Bloom
    • Jace Bloom
  • Evan (Meejoo) Bloom of Omaha
  • Hayley Bloom of Council Bluffs, Iowa
  • Ashlyn (Mitch) Welter of Henderson, Nevada
  • Whitney (Nate) Eichmeyer of LeClaire, Iowa.
• Thomas (Cheryl) Schantz of Wisner
  • Casey (Justin) Bellar of Wisner
    • Blaine Bellar
    • Stockton Bellar
  • Jeremiah (Jackie) Schantz of Wisner
    • Boston Schantz
    • Boyd Schantz
    • Jerret Schantz
    • Amos Schantz
    • Mac Schantz
  • Abby (Devon) Dixon of Wisner
    • Raelynn Dixon
    • Tinsley Dixon

A private family memorial will be held at the graveside in Beemer Cemetery.  At his wishes, cremation has taken place.  A celebration of life will take place later.  Arrangements by Stokely Funeral Home.

The family wishes to thank Faith Health Hospital, the Carson Cancer Center, Dr. Rabih Fayed and staff, Faith Hospice, Beemer Mennonite Church, Pastor Lewis Miller, and the Wisner Care Center for the care provided to Bob over the past four years. Any memorial gifts may be directed to the family to assist with medical and funeral expenses or to Beemer Mennonite Church.