Ronald A. Heggen

Ron retired from the USAF after 20 years of active duty, having received the Distinguished Flying Cross and other military honors before returning to his home state of Iowa. Ron joined the Men’s Garden Club of Des Moines (MGCDM) and Men’s Garden Clubs of America (MGCA) in 1976. He was a Life Member of both organizations. Originating the Life Membership program for MGCDM and serving as its Chair and Treasurer for 22 years.

Ron was elected MGCA Treasurer in 1984 and served in that office until 1998 when he was elected The Gardeners of America/Men’s Garden Clubs of America (TGOA/MGCA) Second Vice President. In 2000 Ron held the office as President of TGOA/MGCA.

After serving as President of the TGOA/MGCA, Ron actively served as a member of the Board of Directors as well as member of the Scholarship Awards Committee; Gardening From The Heart Committee; Newsletter Committee; Awards Committee; and Secretary/Treasurer of the TGOA/MGCA Endowment and Investment Fund Committee.

After retirement from the USAF in 1975, Ron was hired on as the Administrative Manager for a Des Moines law firm. That employment lasted for 20 years. The position required his overseeing of all financial matters; human resources; facilities; etc., except the practice of law.

Also after retiring Ron was involved with numerous other organizations. To list a few, the Downtown Des Moines Kiwanis Club, past president, current board member and served on numerous committees; Des Moines Salvation Army Advisory Board, chair for seven years; Des Moines Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center Advisory Council; Military Officer Association of America, Iowa Chapter, past President and Treasurer (15 years); Military Officer Association of America, Iowa Council of Chapter, past President and Secretary/Treasurer; Des Moines Kiwanis Miracle League, board member; and other membership participations.

Ron was married to his wife, Ila Mae for 58 years. During their years together they lived in Texas, Georgia, Oregon, California, England, Michigan and Iowa. Their family consists of five sons, R. Scott (Lori), Bob (Lori), Rod, Rusty (Diana), Dick (Carrie); 12 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Ron touched many lives and will be greatly missed.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to Des Moines Kiwanis Miracle League or to the Des Moines Salvation Army.

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