Richard Amundson

Richard Amundson, age 82 of Decorah, IA passed away on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at Barthell O.E.S. in Decorah, IA surrounded by family.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 30, 2025 , at First Lutheran Church, 604 W Broadway St., Decorah, IA with Rev. Michael Wilker presiding. Burial will be in the Columbarium in the Lutheran Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. to the time of the service on Monday at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly accepts a donation to one of the following organizations that meant a great deal to Rich: Downtown Decorah Betterment Association, First Lutheran Church Trust Fund or Luther College Richard & Barbara Amundson Scholarship.

Rich or “Amo”, as he was affectionately known, was born on December 1, 1942, to the proud parents of Hazel and Alan Amundson. Rich enjoyed a loving childhood alongside his two sisters, Dori and Marilyn, and several good friends who he remained close with throughout his life.

After graduating from Decorah High School, Rich briefly attended the University of Iowa and then finished his collegiate years at Luther College where he met his devoted wife, Barbara (Babs) and lifelong Pi Sig friends. After college, the two married in Shell Lake, WI on July 9, 1966, and moved to upstate New York where Rich worked for Maytag and Babs taught first grade.

In 1967, Rich was drafted into the US Army and bravely served in Vietnam. Upon his return, Rich and Babs planted roots back in Decorah and started a family which grew to include their three children, Kari, Brian and Erika.

Rich joined the family business, Amundson’s Clothing, with his parents in 1968. “The Store” as it was fondly known within the family was in business for an impressive 45 years, in large part to Rich’s strong work ethic, keen business savvy and commitment to his customers and community.

To Rich’s family, he was known for being a thoughtful husband, supportive dad and loving grandpa. In these roles, he was always there for a pep talk or a joke to brighten your day.

To all who knew him well, Rich was known as one of the biggest sports fans around. His passion for the Iowa Hawkeyes, Minnesota Twins and Luther Norse was only eclipsed by his children and grandchildren’s many athletic pursuits which he loved to attend through the years.

Rich’s most endearing traits were his friendly nature and love of family. He could strike up a conversation with anyone and cared deeply for his loved ones.

Rich is survived by his wife, Babs; his children Kari Schmidt (Robert Schmidt), Brian Amundson (Maura Amundson) and Erika Panichelli (David Panichelli); his six grandchildren Sydney Schmidt, Jack Panichelli, Cole Schmidt, William Panichelli, Maeve Amundson and Nolan Amundson; his sister, Dori Ritland, and several extended family members.