Ryan Jason Hess

Ryan Jason Hess passed away on March 24, 2026, after a courageous six-and-a-half-year battle with cancer. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, and friend whose humor, strength, and love for his family left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

Ryan was born in San Dimas, California on January 7, 1976, and grew up in Glendora, California. He was the fourth of six children and the second of three boys, a role that perfectly suited his spirited personality and lifelong talent for playful mischief.

Ryan dedicated 28 years of his career to Walmart, beginning as a cart attendant and working his way up to become a store manager. His work ethic, leadership, and ability to connect with people earned him respect and lasting relationships throughout his career. During his time at Walmart, he was especially grateful for the support and friendship of Becky Ernstrom, who he affectionately considered a “work mom.”

Ryan served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Colorado Denver South Mission from September 1995 to September 1997. This experience played an important role in shaping his life and faith.

On March 20, 1998, Ryan married Angeleta Hatch in the Salt Lake Temple for time and all eternity. Together they built a beautiful life and were blessed with four children. After Angie’s passing on August 23, 2018, Ryan later found love again and married Amy McKenzie on November 1, 2019. Ryan’s family is deeply grateful for Amy, who came into their lives at a tender time and helped raise his children into independent, successful adults with love and care.

Ryan found his greatest joy at his property—his happy place—where he loved gathering family, riding his side-by-side, fishing, and spending time together in the pavilion. He loved baseball, good music (especially R.E.M. and Depeche Mode), and lively conversation. Known for his quick wit, sarcasm, and playful ability to stir things up, Ryan had a way of making people laugh while also showing a deeply generous heart. On one visit to his property, he excitedly told the family they were going for a ride to get “the best ice cream in town.” When they arrived at a gas station, everyone was surprised to discover that the “best ice cream” was simply store-bought, pre-made ice cream bars—something everyone found absolutely hilarious.

He is survived by his loving wife, Amy; his children, Sam (Elise) Hess, Kyle Hess, Madison Hess, and Leah Hess; his siblings, Merci (John) Rossmango, Nikki (Kevin) Peterson, Tobbi (Matt) Baker, and Justin Hess; as well as many nieces and nephews. He also maintained a close and meaningful relationship with his former in-laws, Guy and Debbie Hatch.

Ryan was preceded in death by his wife, Angie; his parents, Steve and Sharon Hess; his brother, Troy Hess; and his maternal and paternal grandparents.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the Huntsman Cancer Institute, Dr. Heloisa Soares and PA Nicole Orgain, and the National Institutes of Health, Dr. Frank Lin and NP Inna Shamis, for their exceptional care and compassion throughout Ryan’s journey.

Ryan will be remembered for his strength, his humor, his love of family, and the way he made life a little more interesting for everyone around him.