Longtime Portales Resident and Antique Car Enthusiast Rick Inge Dies at 71

Inge owned and operated American Electric for nearly 50 years before his passing.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Rick Wayne Inge, a lifelong resident of Portales, New Mexico, passed away on March 6, 2026 at the age of 71. Inge was the owner and operator of American Electric, a local electrical contracting business, for nearly five decades. Outside of his work, Inge was known as a dedicated family man and passionate antique car enthusiast.

Why it matters

Inge's death marks the end of an era for Portales, as he was a pillar of the community and a beloved figure among the local antique car enthusiast community. His business, American Electric, provided electrical services to the region for nearly 50 years.

The details

Inge was born in Farmington, New Mexico in 1954 and grew up in Portales. After graduating from Portales High School in 1973, he worked at Perry Electric before founding American Electric in 1977. Inge operated the business until his death. In addition to his work, Inge was an avid collector and restorer of antique cars, a hobby he deeply enjoyed.

  • Rick Inge was born on October 20, 1954 in Farmington, New Mexico.
  • Inge graduated from Portales High School in 1973.
  • Inge founded American Electric in 1977.
  • Inge passed away on March 6, 2026 in Lubbock, Texas at the age of 71.
  • Inge's funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

The players

Rick Wayne Inge

A lifelong resident of Portales, New Mexico who owned and operated American Electric for nearly 50 years. Inge was also a passionate collector and restorer of antique cars.

Karen Inge

Rick Inge's wife of over 41 years.

Joshua Inge and Christopher Inge

Rick Inge's two sons.

Bob and Laverne Inge

Rick Inge's father and stepmother.

Mike Inge

Rick Inge's brother.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in Portales, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Karen Inge, Rick Inge's Wife

What’s next

Rick Inge's funeral services will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 10:00 AM in the Wheeler Mortuary Chapel in Portales, New Mexico.

The takeaway

Rick Inge's passing marks the end of an era for the Portales community, as he was a pillar of the local business community and a beloved figure among antique car enthusiasts. His decades-long commitment to his electrical contracting business and passion for restoring classic cars will be deeply missed.