Ronald W. Hammer

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Ron Hammer on March 11, 2024. Ron passed quietly, though abruptly in his sleep due to complications from sleep apnea. He leaves behind a loving family: his wife Debbie, to whom he was married for 38 years, and their three children, Beth, Zoe, and Kat.

Ron lived a remarkable life characterized by love, adventure, and joy. He had an insatiable desire for knowledge and loved teaching others no matter their age. He saw the best in everyone, believed in second chances and didn’t hold a grudge. His faith in God was a guiding force in his life, influencing his actions and interactions daily.

From his childhood on a naval base in Hawaii to mission trips in West Berlin, Mexico, and Canada, Ron's life was a journey of exploration and service. He cherished the countless road trips with the Bismarck youth group and the cross-country adventures with his family. Most recently exploring the beauty of the West from his trusty kayak.

Ron devoted over two decades to ministry, initially leading youth programs in southern California, Colorado, and Bismarck, North Dakota, before becoming the senior pastor of Cornerstone Church in Prescott, AZ. At the age of 48, Ron embarked on a radical career change, joining Persyst Development. There, his passion for teaching helped him excel as a product support specialist, where he aided critical care providers worldwide to better understand and utilize this life saving technology.

His passions and hobbies were as integral to his life as his professional pursuits. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he participated in and watched all kinds of sporting events. From high school water polo to driving his daughter to soccer tournaments and playing in community sports like flag football, volleyball, golf, softball, racquetball, the list goes on – Ron was always in the midst of the action. Ron’s most recent sports passion shifted focus to Premier League Football. His chosen club being Liverpool, may we all remember “You’ll Never Walk Alone.”

Ron's love for the performing arts saw him acting in over 20 community theater productions and even getting in front of the camera for Yavapai College student films, showcasing his talent and passion for storytelling. As a founding member of the Prescott Film Festival, Ron played a vital role in its success, contributing to its continuation over challenging times. The festival's 15th anniversary in 2025 will be a testament to his enduring legacy.

What will be missed most of all is Ron’s infectious laugh whether from chuckling at his own joke, laughing at the antics of the grumble of pugs, or just finding joy in every aspect of life. May we all carry that spark with us and not let the light that he brought to the world dim.

Born November 5, 1959

Passed March 11, 2024

Married to Debbie Atkins on November 30, 1985

Graduated from San Diego State University BA (Hons), 1982

Talbot Theological Seminary MDiv, 1985

Studied at Phoenix Seminary

Former Youth Pastor at 1 st Evangelical Free Church of Bismarck, ND

Former Pastor at Cornerstone Church Prescott, AZ

Product Support Specialist at Persyst Development

Ronald Wesley was born into the family of Robert Waldo, Kay Marlene Hammer and

two brothers, Bob and Rick in Davenport Iowa. A baby sister Sharon passed before Ron

was born. All preceded him in death.

Others preceded in death: Dwain Van Roekel, Pat McGarry III, Thadius Thorson.

Those who remain: Aunt Rae Gregory, cousin Vicky Rae Van Roekel, Uncle Tony Van Roekel and wife Sidney. Mother-in-law Merilee Thorson, nephew Chris Atkins and wife Courtney, niece Nichole Atkins, brother-in-law Jim Atkins. Grandniece Alice Atkins, Grandnephew Atticus Atkins.

As well as other loving extended family members.