Wilda White, 91 of Cozad, Nebraska, died Thursday, March 8th, 2012, at the Cozad Community Hospital.

Wilda was born March 17th, 1920, at Cozad, Nebraska, to Leonard and Grace (Henry) Applegate. She graduated from Cozad High School in 1939.

During WWII, Wilda served in both Los Angeles and Detroit building warplanes as a "Rosie Riveter." The end of the war brought Wilda's future husband home from the service; and on January 21st, 1946, Wilda was united in marriage to Vern White at Norton, Kansas. The couple made their home northwest of Cozad, where they farmed and lived the rest of their married lives together. Their union was blessed with two daughters, Laraine and Verla.

Wilda was a hard worker her entire life. In addition to raising a family, she had been employed with Nebraska Plastics for over 25 years, eventually retiring in the mid 1980's. She was an excellent cook and was always preparing big meals for the family. As time passed Wilda and Vern's home became a summer getaway for their grandchildren, whom they were always doting over. She was a natural caregiver, from her husband, her kids, grandkids and friends; she was always taking care of others. Her strong work ethic was ever present, even in her advanced age, as she could always be found working diligently on chores and projects around the house that most others her age would shy away from.

It is with a feeling of great loss that Wilda's family commits her to God's care just nine days after the passing of her beloved husband of 66 years, Vern. There is peace in knowing that we can acknowledge them as together again.

In addition to her husband, Wilda was preceded in death by a daughter, Laraine Cullers; her parents; brother, Wendell Applegate; and a sister, Lola Johnson.

Survivors include her daughter, Verla (Jay) Ringenberg of Lincoln, Nebraska; four grandchildren, Todd (Pam) Laird of Whidbey Island, Washington, Ramona Laird of Beatrice, Nebraska, Nikki (Kelly) Wilken of Tea, South Dakota and Tony (Audra) Ringenberg of Lincoln; six great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

A memorial service was held on Wednesday, March 14th, 2012, at 10:30 a.m., at the Berryman Funeral Home Chapel in Cozad with Pastor Mike Dennis officiating. Inurnment was in the Cozad Cemetery.

A memorial has been established in her memory. Condolences may be shared at berrymanfuneralhome.com.

Berryman Funeral Home in Cozad was in charge of arrangements.