Tri-Citians rally around beloved Richland ice cream shop owner fighting cancer
Tri-Citians are rallying to support the owner of a small ice cream shop at the entrance to Howard Amon Park in Richland as he battles kidney cancer and vision loss.
Doug Tallman and his wife, Amy, opened Amethyst Creamery in late 2019 after moving from Sunriver, Ore. near Bend.
Amy, also known as Yufant Li, died last September after a lengthy illness.
As Doug Tallman now faces his own illness, Tallman’s friends organized a Go Fund Me campaign with the goal of raising $15,000. Donations will help pay for living and treatment expenses while he takes two months off to pursue treatment for cancer and glaucoma.
Nearly 200 supporters already have contributed over $10,000.
“If you know Doug, you know he has always shown up for others. He’s raised money for fellow business owners in need, supported local causes, and gone out of his way to brighten the lives of those around him,” wrote Diane Keddy, the organizer.
Amy and Doug Tallman opened Amethyst in a former law office at 700 George Washington Way, at Lee Boulevard. The business marries his lifelong love of rocks with ice cream and coffee.
They figured the rock business would carry them through the cooler months when ice cream sales dip.
It has been a hit with residents and Columbia River tourist boat passengers and is regularly named the top destination for frozen treats in the Tri-Cities Best competition.
Follow Amethyst Creamery on Facebook.
This story was originally published September 10, 2025 at 11:53 AM.