Richard “Rick” Basaraba, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and man of deep faith, passed away surrounded by the love of his family and friends at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center Monday, April 6, 2026. He lived a life marked by adventure, hard work and an unwavering commitment to those he loved.
Rick was born on Aug. 2, 1950, in Dickinson, N.D., to Ella and William Basaraba. He was one of six children raised in a humble one-room homestead without electricity or running water. Life on the remote farm in the Badlands shaped his strong character and love for the outdoors. Deer roamed as companions, and horses served as transportation — an upbringing that instilled in him a lifelong appreciation for nature and simple living.
When Rick was a young teenager, his family moved to Boise, in 1964, where his father attended meat-cutting school. Later that year, the family relocated to the Lewiston-Clarkston Valley. Rick went on to graduate from Lewiston High School in 1969.
It was during the summer of 1969 that Rick met the love of his life, Lisa, through mutual friends on a bridge at Potlatch Creek. Their connection was immediate and enduring. After two years of dating, they were married Feb. 27, 1971, Lisa’s 20th birthday, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love and devotion.
Rick worked hard to provide for his family, beginning his career at “The Mill” and later at a welding supply company, Norweco. His strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit led him into sales with Hahn Supply, eventually guiding him to start and operate his own business, The Pressure Doctor, which he proudly ran until his retirement.
In 1977, Rick and Lisa welcomed their daughter, Devin, then followed just 14 months later by their son, Jonah. Rick cherished his role as a father, but it was his grandchildren who truly became the highlight of his later years. He brought joy and excitement to every adventure, whether leading Cub Scouts, cheering from the sidelines at their sporting events, or simply spending time together. He had a gift for making ordinary moments unforgettable.
Rick also had a special place in his heart for his nieces and nephews. He loved mentoring them, guiding them to see both the adventure in life and the presence of Christ through his words, his actions and the way he lived. His influence extended far beyond his immediate family, leaving a lasting impression on all who looked up to him.
Rick’s love for the outdoors never faded. He enjoyed camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, backroad drives and especially picking huckleberries. Wherever he went, he took time to appreciate the beauty of God’s creation.
Above all, Rick was a man of deep and abiding faith. His greatest passion was sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. He lived out his beliefs daily, ministering to family and friends and walking alongside many throughout their lives. His faith guided him to the very end and was a cornerstone of the legacy he left behind.
Rick will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, his generous heart and his steadfast faith. His impact on those who knew him will not be forgotten.
Rick is survived by his loving wife, Lisa; his daughter, Devin, and her husband, Sam Hill; and his son, Jonah, and his wife, Karen Basaraba. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Emma (and her wife, Mary Hilling), Boyd Hill, George Basaraba and Harry Basaraba.
Also surviving are his siblings and their spouses: Dave and Margaret Basaraba, Steve and Connie Basaraba, Roger and Theresa Basaraba, Gloria Basaraba and Helen and Brett Shoemaker, as well as several nieces and nephews.
He shared a special bond with his sister-in-law, Penne White, whom he loved like a little sister. Rick cherished the time spent with Penne, her husband Gary, and their daughters, Kylie and Aren. Their love and support meant so much to him, and they remained faithfully by his side until the very end, caring for him in every way they could.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 18, at Crosspoint Alliance Church in Lewiston.
Service Information
- Date & Time
- Saturday, April 18, 11:00 AM
- Location
-
CrossPoint Alliance Church
1330 Powers Avenue
Lewiston, ID 83501
Get Directions
Offer Condolences
Professional Service
✔ Since 1924
✔ Burial or Cremation Services
✔ Pre-Arranged Funeral Plans
✔ Web-Casting
✔ Modern Comfortable Facility
✔ Up-To-Date Audio/Video
Contact Information
1711 18th StreetLewiston, Idaho 83501
P: (208) 743-4578
F: (208) 743-9453
E-mail: malcoms@malcomsfuneralhome.com
The administrative offices are open Monday - Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday are by appointment only.
1711 18th Street