Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Ronald Hills Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Ronald Hills
christine Anderson
September 19, 2007
Dad, a few weeks have passed by since you left us and I still can't seem to believe that you are really gone. So many little things remind me of you. I think about you every day and wonder what you are up to. Have you started an EFY in heaven yet? Thank you so much for letting me spend so much of the last 8 months with you. I cherish the time I had sharing, laughing, and crying with you. It helped me to feel as if I gave a little back to you, after so many years of being on the recieving end. I miss you, but find so much comfort in the memories we shared together. Thanks for the good life dad. Your my hero. Love always Christine
Kresser Family
September 19, 2007
Collette,
We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our prayers.
Robert and Kathy Kresser and family
Ron and Carol Argyle
September 18, 2007
Donna,
We think about you alot and worry about you being without your loving husband and worry about you just puttig on a brave face. We have always loved your family and Ron was always so kind to our family and so loving. We didn't make it to his service due to illness but have thought so much about you and pray for your comfort and peace and know that although you are in your home alone that you are never really alone because we know that Ron won't leave you, even in death. He loves you very much and will comfort you until it is your time and he will come for you. You are a great lady and have come through so much! Please stay strong and call if you want someone to talk to!
Collette Tomlinson
September 13, 2007
Daddy, It's been a couple weeks now, since you took your big journey to that wonderful place of peace. I miss you terribly, but have felt your presence and comfort throughout this whole time. I have even felt your helping hand and know of your love for me, your "million dollar smile" girl. I want you to know how much I have cherished this past year we've been able to spend together as a family, memories I will never forget, written in my journal, as you always encouraged me to do. I'd like to think I got my smile from you, as I remember the last smile I saw from you. I will keep smilin' as I promised and hope to see your smile again soon! Love always, Collette
Philip Neve
September 8, 2007
When I think about making a difference in the lives of others, I think about my uncle Ron. His valiant example has been a welcome source of inspiration in my life. I'm a better person because I knew him and I’ve never doubted his interest and love for me or for my family. I’ll always remember him for his remarkable humility, warm smile and loving embrace, accepting patience, genuine sincerity, and stalwart faithfulness.
To aunt Donna and the entire Hills family, we love you deeply and want to thank you for sharing Ron with us throughout the years. May your hearts be comforted and your faith strengthened and preserved until that resurrection assured, and gloriously anticipated, family reunion that will reunite us with those who’ve gone on ahead.
We are proud to know your family, and more importantly, are grateful to be a part of it.
Love,
Philip, Taralee, Seth, Zachary, Malia, and Jonah Neve
Scott and Angela Allred
September 7, 2007
Deepest Sympathy.
We want you to know that Brother Hill's life has made a profound difference in our family's life. We are grateful for Brother Hill's efforts in starting EFY. We have 11 children and so far the older 6 have participated in EFY and it has made a remarkable difference in their lives. At EFY Testimonies are strengthened, mission decisions can be reinforced, the spirit is felt so strong, spiritual memories are made, standards are taught and the youth stand strong together, new friendships are formed, and prayers are answered. All of these wonderful things can happen while the youth are having fun at EFY. We want to say thank you. EFY is important and will go on! My kids can't wait until next year's EFY.
We are sorry for your great loss.
May God bless you at this difficult time and always.
Sincerely,
Scott and Angela Allred
Matthew Mouritsen
September 5, 2007
I will forever be grateful to Bro Hills and the program he started. EFY changed my life as a participant and being able to work near him as a counselor was an even greater experience. Our prayers go to the Hills family.
Jennifer Smith
September 4, 2007
Oh dad, I miss you so much! I feel so blessed and I am so thankful to have you as my dad. You were such a great example to all of us. You were my rock. I remember you saying one time when I was really struggling how proud you were of me. You said that people were always saying how much alike we are, and that you took that as a compliment. I feel the same way. I would be proud to be considered like you in any way-- you have so many christlike qualities. I love you so much, I will miss you very much, but I know that I will see you again, and that you will be doing great things on the other side.
Until we meet again, I love you!
Jennifer
TYLER NEVE
September 3, 2007
TO MY FAMILY
WHEN I WAS A YOUNG CHILD YOU WELCOMED ME INTO YOUR HOMES
IT WAS A VERY POSSITIVE ENVIRONMENT FOR ME TO BE AROUND ALL OF YOU
I HAVE HAD FATHER FIGURES IN MY LIFE AND I WOULD LIKE TO TAKE TODAY TO THANK ALL OF MY UNCLES AND AUNTS
AND COUSINS WHO HAVE HELPED ME ALONG THE WAY
TO MY UNCLE RON AND MY AUNT DONNA
THANK YOU FOR HELPING MY BROTHER
AND ALWAYS LOVING HIM
YOU ALWAYS MADE ME LAUGH AND YOU BOTH WERE ALWAYS BRILLIANT TOGETHER
UNCLE RON PLEASE TAKE CARE AND CATCH UP ON TIME WITH OUR FAMILY IN HEAVEN
THANK YOU FOR BEING A TRUE UNCLE AND A WONDERFUL EXAMPLE
YOUR NEPHEW RESPECTFULLY
TYLER BLAKE NEVE
Brad Neve
September 2, 2007
To me Ron was a fantastic uncle. I always loved to see him whenever our family got together. There was something about his kindness that was so deep and so warmly comforting. I'll miss that a lot until we can see him again. My only regret is that I didn't take more time to spend with him, regardless he will always be a positive influence on my life.
September 2, 2007
Grandpa-
I'm really going to miss you. I loved how you would take us to Disneyland when we turned 5 years old. I'm going to miss going to Grandma's house and not seeing you there. I love you very much and I will miss you.
-Megan Hills
John and Kim Bytheway
August 31, 2007
Donna and family:
We love Ron, and we love you! Our lives are forever blessed because of our association with EFY. I don't know what I'd be doing or where I'd be had I not become involved with Especially for Youth after my mission, and it was there that I met my wife. Donna, we'll continue to be friends forever. Our hearts and prayers are with you.
Love, John and Kim Bytheway
Bob Aagard
August 30, 2007
I had my first EFY experience this year at the age of 28 as a counselor. I have a firm belief that Brother Hills has touched more lives for good through EFY than just about any other person alive. The five weeks of EFY definitely changed my life.
One of the session directors this summer told the counselors that not only will we be affecting the lives of our participants, but also their children and grandchildren and so on for generations to come. Brother Hills' legacy will continue to touch lives.
Al Sigman
August 30, 2007
Dear Donna and Family:
I am so saddened by Ron's passing. I have lost a long time friend who you know I highly respected and loved.
I first met Ron in 1967 when I worked part-time at BYU Special Courses and Conferences. Ron was very busy building up the youth programs at that time, but nevertheless took time to help me as a beginning administrator. That's what Ron did--help people and there are so many who owe him a huge debt of gratitude.
I will miss him greatly. I wish you and your family the very best as you cope with missing this dear man in your lives.
May our Father bless you all.
Al Sigman
Paul Warner
August 30, 2007
Ron and I worked together when EFY was organized and it was a great experience for me. I remember the day when we decided to go ahead with EFY the very first year. The numbers were below break even on the financial end and we discussed whether to cancel or not. I told him that was his area and I would support his decision. He said, "Let's go for it." What a marvelous decision that was as thousands upon thousands have been touched for good and their testimonies of the Gospel have developed. The Lord bless you in the loss of a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. Love, Paul Warner
Jack Rose
August 30, 2007
In 1973 I met Ron as a few of us began the Especially for Deaf Youth program which preceded EFY. Ron held on to EFDY during the years when money was tight. his vision of its impact in the lives youth Deaf youth was clear. As a result of this program hundreds of Deaf youth served missions, married in the temple and have had their lives blessed for ever. He taught me how to dream and make things happen. My life has never been the same because of Ron Hills!
Scott and Angelle Anderson
August 30, 2007
We wish to express our condolences, our love and our gratitude to the famiy of Ron. His impact on the lives of youth all over the world will never be forgotten. We had the opportunity to be involved in the first EFY (and every year since), and have observed first-hand the effects of his "brain-child." It has been truly amazing! We are so grateful for his dedication, his perserverence, his example of Christ-like love, and his friendship. He will be greatly missed. Our prayers are with you.
Chandler Knudson
August 30, 2007
Grandpa you are my bud, I will miss you everyday, I know that you are happy and with Grandpa Great taking care of things in heaven until we can be together again. I will never forget the fun times we had together and the chance I had to be with you for so many years. You were the best 'baby-sitter' ever. Remember Grandpa I don't love you a small amount I love you to the moon and back!
Taz Murray
August 30, 2007
Donna,
My love and prayers are with you as you are separated for a time from your husband. I knew Ron through you and through others whose life he touched and know that he was a giant of a man because of your love, faith and dedication and because of the legacy of strength he leaves behind here on earth. He has been a force of good on this earth and hope he can rest from his labors for a time. All my love,
Taz
christopher neve
August 29, 2007
Dear Donna and Family,
My family and I send you our love and condolences for you all during this trying time. Ron was a wonderful, loving man and great example to us all, and we will miss him until we see him again. May the Lord bless you with an extra measure of peace and comfort--Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Love,
Christopher, Stephanie, Heidi, Sarah, Mary, and Naomi Neve
christy Hinkson
August 29, 2007
Brother Hills hired me to be a counselor for A Look at You over 20 years ago. That experience led to many years of teaching EFY and Seminary and a great deal of joy in working with the youth. I will ever be grateful for his sweet confidence in me. My father in Law passed away today too and I am hoping that they can become friends on the other side, they must be doing something really big over there!! Our best to you.
Ruby Hills Larkin
August 29, 2007
My sincere condolances to you and your family. I am sorry for your loss. But we know that he is in a far better place now and having a grand reunion with many who have passed on before him. I'm sorry I can't attend the viewing or funeral. But know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Cindy Bishop Davis
August 29, 2007
Dear Hills Family,
Brother Hills created something with Especially For Youth that has impacted thousands of lives, mine included. I had the great opportunity to work with him at EFY and appreciated his patience with me. I am grateful for his vision and dedication.
Sincerely,
Cindy Bishop Davis
Curtis Galke
August 29, 2007
Dear Hills family,
I also met Bro. Hills when I started to teach and then direct sessions of EFY over 15 years ago. I remember his gentle spirit and constant smile. Every time I look into the eyes of an EFY participant and watch their young lives' change, I will be grateful for the vision and tenacity of your husband and father. May the knowledge of the good he has done throughout his life bring you peace and comfort now and in the years to come.
Jerry & Suzanne Hanson
August 29, 2007
We pray the holy spirit will comfort you and your family at this difficult time.
Our Love To All
Curtis Jacobs
August 29, 2007
Dear Hills Family:
Brother Hills was kind enough to allow me to speak at an EFY over 20 years ago. As a "veteran" of that program, and one who continues to have the blessing of still doing so, I was saddened to hear of Ron's passing. However, as Pres. Kimball said: "There is no tragedy in death, but only in sin." Ron will be greeted by many and yet be missed by many. His vision of EFY has touched countless by now, what a wonderful instrument in the Lord's hand he has been and I'm sure will continue to be. I count it an honor and privilege to have worked with and known such a man as Ron Hills.
Maria Neve
August 29, 2007
dear aunt donna and family, i dont have words to express im sorry for the lost.
he was a very good man and in our hearts is always gonna be, we love you aunt donna and we are with you and in our prays for the family always.
Tyler, Lourdes & Jonathan Neve.
Seth Tomlinson
August 29, 2007
Grandpa,
I really miss you very much, I wanted to teach you some German this year,because I am learning German in school. I will never forget all those special trips we went on, like Disneyland, Lagoon, and to the Big House. You have made me very happy over my life, and you always had a way of making me feel special. I know you will always be near looking out for me and taking care of me.
Love
Seth
Valori Layton
August 29, 2007
Dear Donna and Family,
I had the opportunity to work with Brother Hills at CES Youth and Family Programs for several years, and am so grateful for his remarkable influence. He has left such a legacy for the youth of the Church and influenced so many with his wise and visionary leadership. I share in the deep loss of his passing and wish your family all my love and condolences.
Sincerely,
Valori (Christensen) Layton
Robert and Helen Wells
August 29, 2007
Dear Donna and family,
We pray that the comforting spirit of the Lord and angels will give you peace and love and strength as you walk the rest of life's journey alone--and yet, not alone, as Ron will be near you in your times of need.
As we remember Ron's sense of humor, his wonderful smile, his kindly manner and quiet demeanor we have comfort, through this grief, that we will yet enjoy those traits again in the not too distant future, along with you and all the friends that he loved so much. Our prayers are with you, Robert and Helen Wells
Bill Neve
August 29, 2007
Ron Hills left a great legacy of kindness and fun in the hearts of all who really knew him.We love you all. Donna we especially want you to know how much we appreciate and love you. What a great companion you have had in Ron.We will miss him but have a hope to see him again someday!
Jill Rasmussen
August 29, 2007
Dear Hills Family,
Brother Hills was one of the best influences I have ever had in my life. The words that come to mind are a man without guile, man of integrity and the essence of humility.
I had the privilege of working with him from 1980-1983 in CES Programs. He was my mentor and guide. He had a love for the youth of the church, but also for the parents of the youth. He dedicated his life to serving others and was devoted to the gospel-but never in a preachy way-always by living it.
He was much of the Joseph Smith philosophy in leadership…teaching correct principles but letting us govern ourselves. I learned much about leadership and management through him..he supported my choices –pointing out possible consequences, and allowed me to make mistakes so that I would learn.
After I left Utah and moved to New York and Bulgaria, I would often return to check up on EFY and how things were going. He and Susan always greeted me and filled me in on the new events. It was pure joy to know that I had been a part of something special-EFY-and to know that I was always welcomed back to the fold. I still feel that joy whenever I hear or read about the influence of EFY in someone’s life.
Because he was a quiet and unassuming man, many did not know about his influence on this great program, nor how he and Paul Warner felt like failures after the first year of EFY, and the joy he felt each summer as the program grew and the sadness as it came to a close.(ok…there was relief too…it took a lot of work to pull it off!) He also supported and created other wonderful programs like Boys World of Adventure, Academy for Girls, Sports camps, youth conferences, Pioneer and Wilderness treks, Best of EFY, Especially for Singles, Especially for Parents (and these are only the programs I am familiar with…there were many, many more.)
One thing I particularly loved about him was his artistic talent. My father and grandfathers were artists, so we had much to talk about. He was often at his desk creating a sign with artistic flair. I loved to watch him because it reminded me of the many times I had watched my father do his lettering on signs. Ron was also an artist of souls.
The summer of 1982 while working with him, my father passed away from cancer. He was kind and understanding and a true support through this difficult time for me.
My sadness comes now in not knowing he was ill. I have now moved back to Utah and I drove through Highland a few weeks ago and wondered how he was and what he might be up to. I would have loved to come by and share with him how I valued his teachings. I am comforted in the thought that I communicated it to him in our other visits.
I wanted to thank your family now. I know that the dedicated time he gave to BYU was because of all of your support and love. He loved his family and often spoke of you..and involved you in the events when your schedules permitted. Thank you for sharing him with us. I know you will miss him but I know the Lord will comfort you in your loss.
Curtis Beesley
August 29, 2007
Donna and Family:
I had the privilege of working with Ron at EFY which were some of the greatest years of my life! He was a great support to me and taught me some very valuable eternal principles during that time. He really was a gentle giant and will be deeply missed, but undoubtedly is already anxiously engaged in new endeavors!
Steven and Rebecca Durfey
August 29, 2007
Dear Hills family,
We are saddened to hear the loss of your husband and father and our long-time family friend, Ron. We have loved your family for many, many years and we offer our sincere support at this sad time.
With Steven and I both having experienced the loss of a parent, we express our understanding and our gratitude for the great life that Ron lived. He was an example of kindness and had such a special way with the youth -- where we remember him most.
Steven has many dear memories of Jeff -- which was reflected with Jeff being best man at our wedding. I have memories of friendships with Christine and Collete and with Donna as my young women's leader. We BOTH have wonderful memories of Ron, and we are forever grateful to have had the opportunity of knowing such a sweet and loving man.
With deepest love,
Steven and Beckie (Merrill) Durfey
Jeffery Nelson
August 28, 2007
I would like to express my sincere condolences to the Hills family. I have had the pleasure of working with Jeff for most of my professional life, and although I never had the honor of meeting Ronald, I feel as though I know him through my close associations with Jeff and Sharee. It is never easy to lose someone so special, but he was clearly an amazing man who contributed much to the world and continues to contribute through his amazing family. I pray that your family will be comforted and find peace in celebrating his great accomplishments. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this special time.
David & Karen Gustafson
August 28, 2007
Dear Donna & family, we were so sorry to hear Ron had passed away.We were fortunate to see him at Pete's viewing. Ron is a great man and we enjoyed knowing him and your family all those years in Highland. It was a joy to work with him in the Temple. Love to you and your family.
Paul and Frances Andrus
August 28, 2007
Dear Donna and Family:
It was our privilige to have Ron serve for three years as one of our missionaries in the Northern Far East Mission in Japan in the 1950's.
We have fond memories of serving with Ron in building the Kingdom of God in Japan and that service forged a bond of friendship and love which will continue forever.
We grieve with you at Ron's passing but in our grief we are comforted to know that he is alive and well and living in a bautiful place free from pain and joyfully reunited with his loved ones who preceded him and that we can be reunited with Ron and continue our association forever. It is good to know that you are comforted in your grief by this same knowledge. We are praying for you with Aloha.
Chance Cook
August 28, 2007
Dear Hills Family:
I had the fortunate opportunity of working with Ron as an EFY counselor during several of my college years back in the mid-80s.
As I fondly look back at that memorable chapter in my life, I remember Ron always having a contagious smile on his face and never once did I leave his presence without him sharing a word of encouragement or praise to buoy me up when I was flat out exhausted.
...Again, my time as an EFY counselor remain perhaps the most memorable experience of my life, thanks in part to Ron for having created such a program where he too worked tirelessly behind the scenes.
What a wonderful legacy for him to leave behind for all of "his" counselors, as well as being a magnificent testament of Ron's great vision and desire to help countless youth during a critical moment in their mortality--One which will in no doubt continue changing lives.
Please know Ron will be both missed and always remembered by this former counselor for all his kindness and good works here on Earth.
May the Lord comfort your family during this time of loss.
--Chance Cook
Wayne W Summers
August 28, 2007
I served on a mission in Japan with Ron. We were never companions, but he was near me and I saw his inspired and diligent work.
God bless you Donna & all the family. Ron will be missed.
Wayne & Donna Summers
Webmaster of the Northern Far East Mission; nfem.mission.net
Jay and Cheryl Christense and Family
August 28, 2007
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Carolyn Ball
August 28, 2007
I worked with Brother Hills at CES Youth & Family for about 5 years. I loved him very much and enjoyed working with him. He was quick to give compliments and loved what he did. I could tell and still remember great times with him. I'm thankful that I had the opportunity of knowing him and working by his side. My heart and prayers are with you all.
Kimberlee DeMille
August 28, 2007
Dad I miss you like crazy I wished you could have stayed with us forever but I know you are in a happy place free from pain & suffering that you have endured these past months. I am sure you are having a great reunion there with many. I found a letter you wrote me last night almost 11 years ago, you said that you felt it was such a privilage to be my dad. I would like to say that I can't tell you how wonderful of a father you have been to me and how much I feel privilaged to have been your daughter. Please watch over us and stay near us always. I love you and will miss you until we meet again.
Kimmie
Christine Ollerton
August 28, 2007
I worked with Ron when he coordinated the Children's Dance Program through Courses and Conferences at BYU. I appreciated his concerns for the program and for me. Our friendship was renewed whenever I saw him after he was no longer coordinator. I send my admiration of him and my condolences to the family. Christine Ollerton
Jerry & Kristy Johnson
August 28, 2007
Dear Donna,
Jerry and I want to express our sincere love to you and your children at this time.
Ron was such a great man and it was a pleasure to know him, and live in the Highland 5th ward with you and Ron for 17 years.
May the Lord bless you and all your children and grandchildren through this tough time, but we all know what a great thing it is to be LDS and know we are eternal families.
It is such a great blessing to know that your time apart is only temporary.
Love Jerry & Kris Johnson
Former Highland 5th ward members
Susan and Alan Overstreet
August 28, 2007
Donna and Family, I have such wonderful, fond memories of Ron and the more than 20 years we were able to work together with Especially for Youth. As I think of the thousands of lives that have been changed by Ron's creativity and ability to listen and follow the Spirit, I pay tribute to a humble and great man. Most do not even know his name, but their lives have been changed forever for the better because of his dedication and hard work in the Kingdom. I am a much better person for having known Ron.
We share your loss and send our most sincere condolences.
Showing 1 - 46 of 46 results
Make a Donation
in Ronald Hills's name
Memorial Events
for Ronald Hills
Funeral services provided by:
Anderson and Sons American Fork Chapel49 East 100 North P.O. Box 855, American Fork, UT 84003
How to support Ronald's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Ronald Hills's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
