Ronald Bernett Hetland

Duluth, Minn.

Ronald Bernett Hetland, 74, of Duluth, MN, passed away on June 25, 2024, after a courageous battle with chronic illness.

Ron was born to parents Earl and Lola Hetland, the eldest of four boys. It was there, on the North Dakota family farm, that Ron learned the diligent work ethic which he carried throughout his military service and working career.

Ron enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1969 and did two tours of duty during the Vietnam war serving on ships in various capacities, teaching scuba diving, and doing air traffic control. His exemplary service earned Ron a Navy Bronze Medal.

He left the Navy in 1979 and transitioned into civilian life. By 1984, Ron had moved to Duluth. After career moves which encompassed being a car dealership financial manager, and being an American Family Insurance Agent, Ron became owner of Hetland & Amp; Associates, a public insurance adjusting business. Ron was a respected businessman in Duluth as well as an Honorary Fireman.

Ron enjoyed people and being active. He had served with the Optimist Club, the Community Education Board, and taught Country Dance classes. He helped with Scouts, soccer, and church youth group activities.

After retirement, Ron began to have time for hobbies which included: fishing, boating, baking, woodworking and caring for family dogs. He loved to include his family, especially his grandchildren, in his endeavors.

Ron is preceded in death by his father Earl Bernett Hetland and brother Gary (Denise) Hetland.

He is survived by his wife Tracy Pesola-Hetland, his mother Lola Hetland, Children: Son Jason Bernett (Denise) Hetland, grandchildren McKenna, Faylin, and Lyndzi Hetland. Daughter Alaina (Curtis) Golen, grandchildren Ava and Garik Ronald Golen, and step-grandchildren Dani and Mira Golen. Brothers: Arden (Donna) Hetland and Dennis (Patty) Hetland, many nieces and nephews, previous wife and good friend, Pam Hetland.

There will be a Memorial Service at the American Legion Post 71, 5814 Grand Avenue, Duluth, MN, on Thursday, August 8, 2024, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. The Hetland family invites you to join them in celebrating Ron’s life, to sign the guest book, and share stories. A light sandwich selection will be available.

Family and friends are invited to the graveside service being held at the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery, 4777 Highway 53, Saginaw, MN, for his burial with full military honors that includes a Navy Honor Guard and local American Legion Rifle Squad at 11:00 a.m., Friday, August 9th.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation to the traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall tribute, \”The Wall That Heals.”\ We will present a total donation when the wall travels through Minnesota August 22nd through the 25th in Hutchinson, Minnesota.

Published by The Minot Daily News, July 27, 2024.