Arnold "Ron" Pierce

Arnold "Ron" Keith Pierce, beloved husband, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 28, 2024, in Salem, Oregon. He was 79 years old.

Ron was born on October 16, 1944, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to Ruth Mae (Harsh) and Archee Sylvester Pierce. At an early age, his family moved to Oregon, where he attended Cloverdale School in Turner when it was still the original schoolhouse.

On June 14, 1969, Ron married the love of his life, Barbara Thiel, in Salem, Oregon. They shared over five decades of love and partnership, creating a life full of cherished memories.

Ron dedicated 30 years of his career to the West Coast Sugar Beet Seed Company in Salem. After his time there, he took on a maintenance role at the Woodburn Outlet Stores, where he continued to work until his retirement.

A proud veteran, Ron served in the United States Army from 1967 to May 1969, stationed in the Canal Zone. He was honored with a National Defense Service Medal during his service and demonstrated remarkable skill as a marksman with a .45 pistol and as a sharpshooter with the M14.

Ron’s love for the outdoors was evident in his favorite pastimes—hunting, fishing, and cultivating a large, beautiful garden. These pursuits brought him joy and peace, and he shared the fruits of his labor with friends and family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ruth and Archee, his sisters Donna, Dorothy, Alice, and Colleen, and his brother Dale. Ron is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara, his brothers Archie Pierce Jr. and Clyde Pierce, his sisters Myrna Dornbush and Lee, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will dearly miss him.

Ron’s presence brought warmth and kindness to all who knew him. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him.