Obituary

Ronald Gary Pearce, MD

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Ronald Gary Pearce, M.D. He was born on April 16, 1939, in Spokane, Washington, to William and Carrie Pearce. Ron passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 31, 2024, in Laguna Hills, California.

Ron graduated from Lewis and Clark High School in Spokane and earned his medical degree from the University of Washington in 1965. He married his beloved wife, Ellen, on December 28, 1962, and together they embarked on a journey filled with love and adventure.

The couple moved to Washington, D.C., where Ron proudly served in the US Air Force, completing his internship and residency at Andrews Air Force Base before being commissioned to Tehran, Iran, as a pediatrician. After his honorable discharge as a Major in 1968, he dedicated the next 32 years to pediatric care at Kaiser Permanente, retiring in 2001.

Ron loved spending time with family and friends and enjoying many hobbies. In 1971, the couple bought a second home in Niguel Shores, Dana Point, CA, and later moved there permanently. They created many memories at the beach, golfing, waterskiing, windsurfing, and snow skiing. After retiring, they traveled extensively and enjoyed time with their grandchildren and their dog, Lars.

Ron is survived by his devoted wife of 62 years, Ellen, and his three children: Deborah Egbert (husband John) of Avila Beach, CA; Kathy Leone (husband Rick) of Bellingham, WA; and Stephen (wife Colleen) Kenmore, WA, his beloved sister, Susan Waddell of Nine Mile Falls, WA, sister-in-law Liz Pearce and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. Seven cherished grandchildren also survive him: Hanson, Spencer, and Lindsey (Deborah’s children); Emily and Libby (Kathy’s children); and Samantha and Charlotte (Stephen’s children).

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, his brother Jack Pearce, his brother-in-law Mike Waddell, and his nephew Shawn Waddell.

The family is deeply grateful for the support of friends and family, especially those who faithfully visited Ron from PEO, Laguna Niguel Presbyterian Church, and cousin Norm Jorgensen. They are also thankful for the compassionate care and kindness shown by Joyful Home, Manny Chuci, Sherry, and his private caregivers – Ivan, Patrick, and Arnel.

Ron’s legacy of love and dedication will always be remembered. He touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed by those who knew him.

A memorial service will be held on October 12, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at Laguna Niguel Presbyterian Church, 30071 Ivy Glenn Drive, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677.

In lieu of flowers, Ron requested donations to the Leukemia Research Foundation.