Ricky Hornaday

Minot

Ricky “Rick” Lane Hornaday, 70, of Minot, formerly of Parshall and New Town, died on February 18, 2025, at Trinity Hospital in Minot. Rick was born in Stanley, to Loyal and Grethe “Gertie” (Wadholm) Hornaday. He grew up in Parshall, where he graduated from high school in 1972, and earned an Associate’s degree in Civil Engineering Technology from Lake Region State College in 1974.

Rick was a Registered Land Surveyor who dedicated 50 years of his life to shaping western North Dakota. His commitment to hard work earned him the respect of many, and even in retirement, he made a lasting impact on the region’s landscape.

He and Wanda grew up in the same small town, crossing paths often–Rick was even Wanda’s paperboy. In 1987, they married and had their daughter Shari. They shared nearly 38 years of love, laughter, and commitment. Rick and Wanda often escaped to their lake house for weekends away. They enjoyed the simple pleasure of each other’s company; their banter and laughter could be heard for miles. It was a time for them to relax, reconnect, and cherish memories.

Rick loved the outdoors, whether it be fishing, hunting, or working. In his later years, he loved time at home with the dogs, watching Westerns, always with a Diet Pepsi and something sweet. He dreamed of winning the lottery, believing “somebody’s gotta win.”

Rick had a love for animals, especially dogs and cats. His home was always filled with the sound of paws. He looked forward to the day he could be reunited with all those happy wagging tails from his past.

Rick and Shari had a connection built on laughter and shared humor. He loved making her laugh with his stories and jokes. Shari treasured their time on the boat together, making lasting memories with her dad. He was always there to provide and protect, and she knew she could always count on him.

Rick had the pleasure of helping raise his sister’s great-granddaughter, Avari, with whom he shared a special bond. They always joked around, never failed to get along, and enjoyed each other’s company. Rick often called her the “best niece ever,” a nickname that reflected their connection and the joy she brought to his life.

In his later years, Rick’s son-in-law, Farhad, was always there to help take him to medical appointments, providing the love and support he has always shown to his own family. Farhad will never forget his fishing trips with Rick, which were full of laughter and great memories. He always made sure to be on his father-in-law’s side. They shared a bond built on respect, and Rick always appreciated how Farhad made sure he wasn’t alone, especially during the toughest times.

Above all, Rick was devoted to his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Wanda Hornaday; his daughter, Shari, and son-in-law, Farhad Hossain; and his special great-niece, Avari Folven, all of Minot.

He is also survived by his sisters, Sharon Hornaday of Portland, OR, and Fern (Harlan) Skarphol of Ryder; his brother, Forrest Hornaday of Scappoose, OR; brother-in-law, Jim Ruland of Geneva, OR; sisters-in-law, Mavis Hornaday of Minot, Sharon (Quentin) Bangen of Plaza, and Norene Bartelson of Carmel, IN; along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family who will miss him dearly.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Loyal and Gertie Hornaday; his father and mother-in-law, Albert Spitzer and Esther “Norma” (Rambeck); his brother, Lynn Hornaday Sr.; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Yvonne (Arnie) Olson, Carol (Gene) Norton, Bonnie Hornaday, Marsha (Virgil) Peterson, and Laurie Ruland. He was also preceded in death by nephews, Kelly Norton, Lane Hornaday, Patrick Riley, Matthew Ruland, Del Bangen, and J.C. Bartelson; and nieces, Kathy Barry, Kyanne Olson, Keri Edwards, and Kym Capek.

Rick’s support and sense of humor will be deeply missed. His knack for telling stories and his playful, joking nature brighten any room. Whether teasing or sharing a laugh, he had a way of making everyone feel at home. His love for family and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

Memorial Service Monday, February 24, 2025, at 11 a.m. in Bethel Lutheran Church, New Town.

(Langhans Funeral Home, Parshall www.langhansfuneralhome.com.

Published by The Minot Daily News, February 22, 2025.