I believe that early exposure to this special place was my driving force to not only breed a great herd of purebred Angus but also to become actively involved in cattle industry organizations, contributing my ideas and time to help make all beef producers more successful.” 

From his childhood days managing successful 4-H beef projects, to his animal science degrees and impressive livestock judging record at Penn State University during the 1960s, Rishel was well prepared for a career in the beef industry. In 1975, with limited resources, Rishel and his wife, Barb, made the bold decision to leave New York and move to Nebraska to establish themselves within the western cattle industry. With their three young daughters, Jill, Joy and Judy, the bull New Criterion, 12 purebred Angus females and a shared passion for good cattle and a vision of excellence, together, they began developing Rishel Angus at North Platte. 

“Our committee documented Bill’s lifetime commitment to the beef cattle industry as inspiration for future generations of breeders, producers and leaders,” commented Michael Bishop, Rishel nominating committee chair.

In 2017, Rishel Angus became TD Angus at Rishel Ranch when the operation was sold to Trey and Dayna Wasserburger. The Rishels were introduced to the couple by a banker friend who thought they would be a good fit for the transition they had long considered, and deeply desired, to carry on their life’s work. 

During the last 60-plus years, Rishel has received numerous honors, served in dozens of volunteer leadership roles in state and national beef organizations and with education institutions, and judged many cattle shows. Rishel said that he is most proud of his wife, Barb, and her partnership in their life journey and businesses, as well as their three married daughters and their daughters’ families. 

An original oil portrait of Rishel, painted by renowned artist Richard Halstead, has been commissioned and will be framed and hung when the award is presented at NAILE in November.

Visit www.rishelportrait.com to learn more about the Saddle & Sirloin Gallery, read the Bill Rishel story, and make a contribution to help underwrite the cost of portrait and the event in Louisville, and establish a fund to provide perpetual support of beef industry research and development.