Ronald John Hearn

January 13, 1950 – September 5, 2026

Ronald J. Hearn, 76, of Las Vegas, Nevada, passed away on September 5, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of service, adventure, and cherished memories, along with a family who loved him deeply.

Ron was born on January 13, 1950, at Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue, Nebraska, to John and Jeanne Hearn. His life would take him far beyond his Nebraska roots, leading him on a remarkable journey filled with experiences, accomplishments, and unforgettable adventures.

As a young man, Ron developed a love of music. While in high school, he started a band and played guitar, beginning a lifelong pattern of pursuing a wide range of interests with curiosity and enthusiasm.

Ron proudly served his country in the United States Army, including assignments in Panama and South Korea. Following his military service, he began what would become a distinguished career in law enforcement. He worked his way through the ranks of the Douglas County Sheriff's Office, ultimately retiring as a Captain. He also attended the prestigious FBI National Academy, an accomplishment that reflected his dedication to his profession and commitment to excellence. Throughout his military and law enforcement careers, Ron earned the respect of those who served alongside him through his integrity, professionalism, and dedication to others.

After retiring from his law enforcement career in Nebraska, Ron moved his family to Las Vegas in 1998, beginning an exciting new chapter in their lives. Las Vegas became home, and Ron continued his career in law enforcement as a Gaming Control Board Enforcement Officer, where he served for 13 years before retiring in 2012.

But there was much more to Ron than his career.

He had a lifelong fascination with aviation and loved airplanes of all kinds. He also enjoyed parachuting, embracing the thrill and freedom of freefall. During his military service in Panama, he participated in parachute jumps as part of air shows, adding yet another adventure to a life filled with remarkable experiences.

An avid reader, Ron had a particular interest in philosophy and literature. He possessed a naturally curious mind and was always interested in learning, exploring ideas, and understanding the world around him. He also enjoyed kayaking and finding new adventures wherever life took him.

Ron was a private man by nature, but when he chose to tell a story, people wanted to listen. After a life that included military service, decades in law enforcement, parachuting from airplanes, kayaking, travel, and countless other adventures, he had earned more than a few stories worth telling.

Ron and Linda shared a love of travel and adventure. In 1994, they backpacked through Europe for more than a month, creating memories that stayed with them for years to come.

Ron shared 55 years of marriage with his wife, Linda K. Hearn, building a life together that spanned more than half a century.

He is survived by his loving wife, Linda; his brother, Jim Hearn; his children, Michael Hearn and Susan Chamberlain; his grandchildren, Jaden Chamberlain, Joshua Chamberlain, Natalie Hearn, and Sophia Hearn; many beloved nieces and nephews; his brother-in-law, Bill Howard; his sister-in-law, Lisa Howard; and his son-in-law, Darrel Chamberlain.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Jeanne Hearn, and his brother, Tom Hearn.

Ron lived life in his own way: private, intelligent, independent, adventurous, and endlessly curious. From playing guitar as a young man to serving his country, building a respected career in law enforcement, traveling the world, kayaking, parachuting from airplanes, and losing himself in a good book, his was a life fully lived.

Those who knew him will remember his quiet strength, sharp mind, adventurous spirit, and the stories he shared. His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the lives he touched, and the memories that will be cherished for generations.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered. ❤️