Rickey “Rick” Amburgy passed away peacefully on Jan. 10, 2026 at his home in Irrigon at the age of 78 from a courageous battle against cancer, surrounded by his loved ones.
He was born on Feb. 18, 1947 in Morton, Wash. to Curtis and Wilma Amburgy.
He grew up in Glenoma, Wash. and went to school in the White Pass School District. He learned early on the value of a strong work ethic and willingness to complete any task out in front of him that carried with him throughout his life. He spent his childhood either in the mountains hunting, picking berries or on the water fishing.
After high school in 1964 he proudly joined the United States Navy, where he married his first wife, Karen Johnson. They had a son, Gene Amburgy and shortly followed with a daughter, Christina Amburgy. Following his time in service he moved back to East Lewis County, where he held multiple positions within truck driving.
He would later move to the Hermiston area in the early 1980s. In 1983 he remarried Katy Stevens; in 1985 they had a daughter. He worked at Lamb Weston as warehouse lead and would retire in 1997 due to a broken back. One year later in 1998 he would adopt his grandson, Ricky Amburgy, and raise him as one of his own.
He remarried in 2024 to Lois Hohenwald. They enjoyed retirement and traveled to see family every chance they got.
Throughout the years he enjoyed many hobbies, taking trips and exploring life. From miles and miles of hiking mountains, finding the perfect fishing hole, and playing his favorite slots at the casino to coaching youth sports, he always found a way to stay busy. One of Rick’s favorite hobbies was tending to his garden.
Rick was a devoted father, man of integrity, and a man full of wisdom. As a father, Rick led by example, teaching the value of hard work, honesty, and perseverance.
Rick is survived by his wife, Lois Hohenwald; his sons, Gene and Ricky Amburgy; his sister, Patricia Roberts; grandsons, Tyler and Travis Amburgy; and granddaughters, Sydney and Quinsee Amburgy.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Curtis and Wilma Amburgy and his daughter, Christina Kennicker.
A private service will be held at a later date.
Please share memories of Rickey with his family at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
