Fred Robert Hora Sr.

Fred Robert Hora Sr.: February 20, 1936 – April 4, 2025

SCAPPOOSE- Fred Robert Hora Sr. was born on February 20, 1936, in Port Townsend, Washington, to Fred and Irene Hora. His early childhood saw the family moving from Port Gamble, Washington eventually settling in St. Helens, Oregon. Fred, along with his younger brother Rodney, was enrolled at Saint Frederick’s Catholic School before attending high school in St. Helens. Fred was an accomplished athlete, playing football throughout high school and two years at Portland State University. He passed that competitive spirit onto his three children.
After high school, Fred began working in the paper mill in St. Helens. He had a long career in the maritime industry, starting as a deckhand at Shepherd Towing Company. His hard work and dedication earned him a promotion to Captain, where he spent many years in the pilot house. Fred continued his river work when Shepherd Towing closed, running Captain for Tidewater Barge Lines, where he retired in 1998 after approximately 40 years of service on the river.
Fred had a deep and lasting love for fishing, particularly for Chinook salmon. He spent countless hours on his boat, fishing the rivers he knew so well. Fishing wasn’t just a hobby for Fred; it was a passion.
In 1967, Fred met the love of his life, Sandy, and her two children, Douglas and Deborah. As the story goes, it was a standing joke that he married the family because he wanted those children, and Sandy was just a bonus. On January 27, 1968, Fred and Sandy married, and in 1969, they welcomed their son, Fred Jr., completing their family. Unfortunately, they lost their son, Douglas, in a Navy flight accident in 1987; a loss that left a lasting impact on Fred.
Fred was preceded in death by his son Douglas, his parents Fred and Irene Hora, and his in-laws Alvin and Catherine Hawk. He is survived by his beloved wife, Sandy; his brother, Rodney; his daughter, Deborah (Bill) Dickson; his son, Fred Jr. (Brigitte) Hora; and his cherished grandchildren, Gabby (Rian) Kierce, Jared Hora and Josh Dickson.
Fred will be remembered for his strong work ethic and most importantly, his immense love and pride for his family. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all those who knew him and loved him.