Remembering Ron Hixson: A Pioneer, Mentor, and Founder of EarthCraft Construction

September 9, 2025

Remembering Ron Hixson: A Pioneer, Mentor, and Founder of EarthCraft Construction

August 21, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Mark "Ron" Hixson, founder of EarthCraft Construction, who died peacefully on August 21st at St. Alphonsus RMC in Boise, surrounded by his beloved daughter, granddaughter, and life partner.

A Legacy Built on Service, Conservation and Sustainability

Fifteen years ago, Ron founded EarthCraft Construction Inc. with two clear missions that would define not only his company but his entire approach to life: to leave the world a better place than he found it, and to establish a service-oriented business model that continues to guide us today. These weren't just business principles for Ron—they were a reflection of his character and his deep commitment to both his craft and his community.

Ron's journey in construction spanned nearly 50 years in the Boise Valley, during which he designed and built hundreds of custom and spec homes. What set him apart wasn't just his technical skill, but his pioneering spirit in green building long before it became mainstream. He established EarthCraft as Idaho's first green building company, driven by his genuine desire to create structures that would benefit both homeowners and the environment.

Award-Winning Innovation

Under Ron's leadership, EarthCraft achieved remarkable recognition, including the Mayor's Design Excellence Award in 2010 for the Boise Avenue Straw Bale Residence—Idaho's first-ever LEED-rated residence. This achievement exemplified Ron's commitment to pushing boundaries and setting new standards in sustainable construction.

"Often imitated, never duplicated," was how Ron's approach was described, and it's a testament to his unique vision and unwavering dedication to excellence in green building practices.

Overcoming Challenges with Determination

Ron's professional success was all the more remarkable given the personal challenges he overcame. Despite being dyslexic—which created difficulties with reading, writing, and spelling—Ron never allowed this learning disability to limit his potential. Through compensatory strategies and sheer determination, he mastered every subject he set his mind to, demonstrating the same problem-solving ingenuity in his personal growth that he brought to his construction projects.

A Heart for Community and Recovery

While Ron's professional achievements were significant, those who knew him understood that his greatest passion was helping others. Thirty-six years ago, Ron transformed his own life through AA and Spectrum self-discovery workshops, and he dedicated himself to supporting others on similar journeys. For many years, he facilitated AA meetings at the Idaho State Correctional Facility, teaching trades to protégés and helping them overcome their addictions. Ron was set to receive his 36-year AA chip the week following his passing—a milestone that speaks to his lifelong commitment to recovery and service to others.

A Life Rooted in Love and Legacy

Born on October 10, 1946, in Mesa, Arizona, Ron's love for building began early under his Grandpa Jake's guidance. This early mentorship sparked a lifelong passion for craftsmanship that he would later pass on to countless others, including current EarthCraft President Jon Clark, who has worked diligently to continue Ron's design-build vision while incorporating new ideas about green design and quality construction techniques.

Ron's greatest joy, however, came from his family. His children Jessica and Jake, his grandchildren, and his life partner of 13 years, Barb, were the center of his world. His lifelong spiritual connection to nature, his love of fishing, hunting, and camping with family and friends, reflected the same appreciation for the natural world that drove his commitment to sustainable building practices.

Continuing the Mission

As we mourn the loss of our founder, we also celebrate the enduring impact of his vision. The service-oriented business model Ron established continues to guide EarthCraft Construction today. We remain committed to his core belief in prioritizing our clients, adding value to their lives through our buildings and business practices, and leaving the world a better place than we found it.

Ron's influence extends far beyond the structures he built. He created a community of builders, craftsmen, and individuals whose lives were transformed by his mentorship and example. His legacy lives on in every energy-efficient home we build, every client relationship we nurture, and every person we help along the way.

Memorial Service Information

We invite you to help us celebrate the life of Ron in a place that he built. The celebration will be held on 9/13/25 at 11 AM  at the East Park Picnic Pavilion on the South East side of the Idaho Chinden Campus. Ron designed and built this structure. Parking is available in the lot across the street from the pond and picnic structure. 

https://everloved.com/life-of/mark-hixson/obituary

**See above for location and parking details.

To us, Ron Hixson was more than EarthCraft's founder—he was a visionary, a mentor, a friend, a father-figure, and a man who truly lived his values every day—a true conservationist. While we deeply feel his absence, his spirit continues to guide our work and inspire our commitment to excellence, sustainability, and service to others.

Thank you, Ron. Your legacy is built to last

Jon Clark, Renee Dugas, and the entire EarthCraft Team