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Two passions collide for Nebraska native Bob Wirz

Kristen Sindelar
Jan 19, 2023
Jan 19, 2023

Wirz 3.jpg — An avid Husker fan, Bob Wirz grew up in Halsey, Neb. His book “My Nebraska” shares the fond memories Wirz has of life in the Sandhills as a youth.
Submitted photo

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Bob Wirz has two theme songs throughout life: “Take Me out to the Ballgame” and “There is No Place like Nebraska.”

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Wirz 5.jpg — Wirz’s father owned and operated the local grocery store in Halsey, the Wirz Cash Store. The building no longer exists.
Submitted photo

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Wirz 2.JPG — Bob Wirz (#5) started his sports career in the fifth grade when he played his first basketball game.
Submitted photo

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Wirz 4.jpg — While working for KHAS-TV in Hastings, Neb., Bob Wirz interviewed Cassius Clay in 1963. Clay is better known today as the famous boxer Muhammad Ali.
Submitted photo

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Wirz 7.jpg — R.A. “Fat” Wirz delivered mail to ranchers in the Halsey area from 1946 to 1986. This was a typical mail load in his delivery truck.
Submitted photo

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Wirz 8.jpg — N.J. “Nick” Wirz was the early postmaster for Purdum, Neb. He was the grandfather of Bob Wirz. Picture taken prior to 1940.
Submitted photo

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Reporter Kristen Sindelar has loved agriculture her entire life, coming from a diversified farm with three generations working side-by-side in northeastern Nebraska. Reach her at Kristen.Sindelar@midwestmessenger.com.