Frederick Richard Hauer, 75

Dr. Frederick "Ric" Richard Hauer, 75, of Missoula passed away suddenly on Oct. 29, 2025, in Rapid City, South Dakota. Ric courageously lived with metastatic cancer for 13 years, far exceeding his prognosis. A devoted husband, father, grandfather and mentor, he touched countless lives through his warmth, wisdom and generosity. Born in Lansing, Michigan, to Dr. Roman "Fred" Hauer and Dorothy (née Nourse) Hauer. Ric grew up in Fowlerville and earned degrees in fisheries and wildlife from Michigan State University, followed by a Ph.D. in stream and river ecology from the University of North Texas. He married the love of his life, Brenda Russell in 1971, and together they raised Andrew and Bethany, sharing a life full of adventure and travel.

Ric served as a professor at the University of Montana from 1986 to 2018 and continued as Emeritus until his passing. He founded the Institute for Ecosystems and the Systems Ecology graduate program, published over 125 scientific papers, and co-edited Methods in Stream Ecology. His research shaped national water policy and trained hundreds of professionals in wetland ecology. An avid pilot, conservationist and global collaborator, Ric worked on water issues across North America and internationally. He was also a dedicated member of All Souls Missoula PCA Church and cherished time with his family above all.

Ric is survived by his wife, Brenda; children, Andrew (Alisha) and Bethany (Russell); seven grandchildren; and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Katherine.

A celebration of life will be held April 25, 2026, at the University of Montana Ali Auditorium. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the F. Richard Hauer Endowed Scholarship at the University of Montana Foundation, P.O. Box 7159, Missoula, MT 59807-7159. To leave condolences for the family visit KirkFuneralHome.com.