Ronald Patrick McCreary

Ronald Patrick McCreary, Ph.D., Lt Col, USAF (Ret.), affectionately known as Pat to his family, friends, and colleagues, passed away on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, curiosity, and love. He was born on June 24, 1949, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Herbert Ross McCreary Jr. and Helen Louise McCreary (Vogel).

On June 1, 1977, Pat married the love of his life, Jane Ann Hogan. Together, they built a devoted family and shared nearly five decades of marriage. He is survived by his wife, Jane Ann McCreary; his sons, Brian M. McCreary and his wife, Jami, and Sean D. McCreary; and his six beloved grandchildren, Cali McDougal and her husband, Andrew, Aidan McCreary, Brice McCreary, Daniel McCreary, Elsa McCreary, and Felicity McCreary. He is also survived by his brother, Dale T. McCreary (Tim).

Pat's life was marked by an insatiable curiosity and a lifelong love of learning. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Albuquerque, followed by both a Master of Science and a Doctor of Philosophy in Genetics from the University of Arizona. Throughout his career in the United States Air Force and later as a Department of Defense civilian, he continued to pursue professional certifications and new knowledge, believing that learning was one of life's greatest joys.

A retired Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force, Pat balanced the demands of military service with his many interests. Between missile alert duty and graduate studies, he found time to earn his private pilot's license, reflecting his lifelong love of aviation. He was happiest outdoors, especially in the mountains, and enjoyed hunting, hiking, camping, and riding his motorcycle.

Pat had a special affection for hot air balloons and rarely missed the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. For nearly forty years, he treasured the friendships and adventures that came with being part of a balloon chase crew family. He was an enthusiastic sports fan who enjoyed ice skating, hockey, lacrosse, soccer, and AAA baseball. He generously shared his love of sports with young people by coaching and refereeing youth soccer.

A gifted teacher and mentor, Pat found great fulfillment in helping others learn. He taught Sunday School for many years, served as an instructor at the United States Air Force Academy, and was always eager to share his knowledge and encouragement with others. Music was another of his passions, and he especially loved singing in the church choir. Never one to shy away from a challenge, he even taught himself the art of working with hot glass long before instructional videos and online tutorials made such pursuits commonplace. He also enjoyed serving as a docent at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History until the COVID-19 pandemic brought that chapter to a close.

Above all else, Pat loved the Lord and sought to honor Him throughout his life. Wherever military assignments or opportunities led, one of his first priorities was finding a church family. He faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher, elder, deacon, choir member, committee member, and active participant in Bible studies. His faith was not merely something he professed, but something he lived daily through service, generosity, and steadfast devotion to God and to others.

A graveside service complete with full Military Honors to commemorate Pat's time and dedication in the Air Force will be held on Friday, July 3, 2026 at 10:00 am at Sunset Memorial Park. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 4, 2026, at 10:00 am at Rio Rancho Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Rio Rancho Presbyterian Church: https://rioranchopresbyterianchurch.org/donate.html

Pat will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his love of family, his joy in learning, his generous spirit, and his willingness to serve wherever he was needed. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew and loved him.