Donald E. Pierson's Obituary
Donald Eugene Pierson born October 15, 1932 in Kansas. He was known to be a good man, a reluctant but great leader, a loving father, a joyous grandfather, a fortunate great grandfather, a loyal friend, and a devoted husband peacefully stepped through the veil between this life and the next in his sleep on Thursday, April 9th.
A Navy veteran, he served his country during the Korean Conflict. He completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Wyoming, where he met the love of his life in the add drop line. Both he as his wife became educators and earned post graduate degrees from the University of Arizona, while raising 5 children. As a lifelong educator, he inspired those who listened with ideas and motivated students and staff by asking questions and in return carefully listening to the answers. He opened Thornydale Elementary in 1974 and coined their mascot, the Thunderbirds!
While he was human as all of us are, he is remembered with fondness and love for his zest for: life, children, laughter, equity, human kindness, music, love, libations, college athletics, and a good story whether it be in print, on screen, or word of mouth. He was a master of discernment and could quickly find the good in people as well as that which they would speedily hide. While the world is certainly less without him, the life beyond is certainly better for the soul it has received. He was many things to many people, but first and foremost, people would say he was a good man and to those who were fortunate to call him so, he was simply, Dad.
Donald is survived by wife Geraldine, 5 children, 6 grandchildren, and 3 great granddaughters. He will be meeting son Max, brother Jack, and parents Eugene and Fern Pierson.
A private service will be held for family on April 16th. His family is planning a memorial service and celebration of life to be held at a later date. Information and updates can be found here. https://sites.google.com/view/piersonfamily/home
To ensure the health and safety of our community, we are following all guidelines set by local, state and CDC officials. If you are planning on attending a service, please contact the funeral home in advance, so that we can plan accordingly.
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