Gerald Bruce Rambur

Gerald (Jerry) Bruce Rambur, 84, of Selah, Washington, passed away peacefully, in his home, surrounded by his family on November 15, 2025, following a massive stroke. He was a beloved partner, devoted father, cherished grandfather, and dear friend to many.

Born in Mandan, North Dakota on June 24, 1941, to Joseph Rambur and Clara Bender. Jerry and his family moved to Auburn, Washington, in 1944. Following his parents’ separation, Jerry and his brothers spent time in various foster homes across Washington state, living in 11 different residences over 9 years. The home he most fondly remembered was that of the Vout Dairy family. Jerry and his brothers lived on their dairy farm where there was plenty of work and delicious food, or “good eatin’”, as he would say. He and his brothers later returned to their father’s home in Auburn, where they graduated from Auburn High School. Following graduation, after a month-long trip to Alaska with his close friend, Jerry Pierson, he was hired by the Burlington Northern Railroad. He dedicated 30 years to the company, undergoing extensive training as a machinist and eventually worked his way up to supervisor at BNSF.

Jerry lived a life filled with love and laughter. He was known for his jovial laugh, zest for life, and keen sense of humor. He loved dogs-especially his hound dogs that he raised over the years. Jerry cherished spending time with his family and friends, telling stories and playing cards. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying upland and waterfowl hunting, big game hunting, fishing, and spending time working in the yard. Jerry was a proud and active member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles (FOE 289) dedicating his time volunteering.

Jerry enjoyed traveling across the country. When not travelling, he took pleasure in reading maps, planning his next trip, and researching places he’d recently learned about. His most cherished trips included visits with his daughters and their families, as well as his extended family shared with his partner, Susie. He also enjoyed his frequent complimentary trips to Laughlin, Nevada “to win”, his trips to see his brothers, a trip to Germany, and his most recent cruise to Alaska.

Jerry is dearly missed by his beloved family and friends. He is survived by his loving family including partner Susie Walters; his daughters Nikki Rae McFerran (John), Kelli Linn Smart (Aron), Melissa Dawn Hart; grandchildren Brandi Nicole McFerran, Rebecca Ann McFerran, Stevie Ann Hunsperger (Braden); his stepson Kenneth Woods; his brothers John Rambur and Lee Rambur (Linda); former wives Marie King McBride, Pamela Sherlock Woods and Carrol Park, and extended family and friends. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Rambur and Clara Bender, and his stepmother, Grace Rambur.

A celebration of life will be held in July 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Fraternal Order of Eagles Yakima in memory of Jerry.