Ron J. Hill, former athletic director for MidAmerica Nazarene University, passed away Thursday, September 24, 2020 at Homestead of Olathe North. He was 76.

During his 29 years at MNU, Ron served in many roles. He was a professor of physical education, a basketball, baseball and golf coach, faculty athletic representative, registrar and for the last 14 years prior to his retirement, athletic director. Ron was awarded Athletic Director of the Year by the Heart of America Conference in 2007, the same year that he oversaw the Pioneer men’s basketball team win the NAIA National Championship. In 2014, Ron was inducted into MNU’s Athletic Hall of Fame.

Men’s basketball coach Rocky Lamar (’76), Ron Hill, Rod Radcliffe (’76).
Men’s basketball coach Rocky Lamar (’76), Ron Hill, Rod Radcliffe (’76).
Ron was a member of College Church of the Nazarene and served in different capacities including the Stephen Ministry.

Ron loved traveling and being outside. He loved walking the beach or hiking in the mountains. Over the years, he played baseball and fished with his grandchildren. Ron and his son, Brian, loved deep sea fishing, hunting, skeet and trap shooting. Ron loved visiting his daughter, Renee at her family farm and going on family excursions.

Ron is survived by his wife, Nancy, son, Brian (Kristi) and daughter, Renee (Denny) Gillard. He has four grandchildren: Tyler Hill, Brooke Hill, Chance Gillard, and Noah Gillard.

A private graveside services will be held at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2020 at Olathe College Church of the Nazarene, 2020 East Sheridan at 2 p.m. Visitation will be held with the family after the service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Pioneer Athletic Association at MidAmerica Nazarene University. 2030 East College Way, Olathe, Kansas 66062.

Read more about Ron J. Hill at Penwell-Gabel.