Apr. 14, 1942 - Jun. 24, 2025
BURLEY – In Loving Memory of my father, Richard Hearin.
It’s hard to put into words the life and light that was Richard Hearin. To know him was to be uplifted by his humor, encouraged by his wisdom, and inspired by his joyful spirit. He had a way of lighting up a room and leaving everyone just a little bit better than he found them.
Dad loved to remind us:
“Ain’t no hill for a climber.”
“I’d rather be lucky than good any day!”
“Even a blind squirrel gets a nut every once in a while!”
Those weren’t just funny sayings to him; they were how he lived. He faced life’s challenges with grit, humility, and a grin, always believing there was another hill to climb, another lucky break to find, and another reason to keep going.
Dad spent his career as a beloved teacher, shaping the hearts and minds of 3rd-, 4th-, 5th-, and 6th-grade students at Mt. Spurr Elementary in Alaska. He didn’t just teach—he inspired curiosity, laughter, and kindness in every classroom he entered.
Outside the classroom, he was a gifted flower and plant enthusiast. His gardens were a living reflection of his heart—vibrant, thoughtful, and beautifully tended. He could landscape with the best of them, creating spaces that bloomed with life and joy.
He also enjoyed finding landscaping rocks for his garden... and oh yes... bowling!
Back in college at Idaho State University, Dad loved to tell the story of how he bowled anchor for the Men's Team sponsored by "Eat Me Submarine" Sandwich shop! His love of bowling was passed down from his parents and imparted to both George and Sunni, who have thousands of fun memories from their bowling adventures in league and bowling nationals in Reno!
On June 4th, 2025, Rich and Mary shared their 60th wedding Anniversary!
Their favorite memories were traveling the Alaska-Canadian Highway 29 times and exploring Alaska for over 30 years.
Richard died from a sudden stroke and complications on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. He died peacefully, in his sleep, surrounded by family.
In accordance with Richard’s wishes, no formal funeral services will be held. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Rasmussen-Wilson Funeral Home of Burley.
