John D. Pierce

John D. Pierce, age 89, of Pray, died Thursday, February, 21, 2013 at his home. No service will be held per John's request. Interment will take place at a later date in Harlowton, MT. John was born on August 4, 1923, in Harlowton, MT. He was the son of Dorsey John and Mae Lettie (Hagberg) Pierce. He received his early education at Olaf School House in Two Dot, MT, John was a 1942 graduate of the Harlowton High School. John entered active military service in the United States Navy on February 15, 1945, and served his country stateside during WW II. He received an Honorable Discharge on May 3, 1945. John was married Helen Fleming in 1942, Vi Cunningham in 1963, following her death he married Gerry Dudley in 1996 and following her death he wed Linda Coward in 2004. John and Helen were blessed with three children, D.J., Dorothy and Bob. John was a Ranch Man at heart. After serving in the Navy John purchased the family ranch north or Two Dot. John and Helen moved to the Paradise Valley. After a few years he went to Port Alexandria, Alaska. There John worked as a Commercial Fisherman owning and operating a boat. In 1973 he returned to Paradise Valley to ranch again. John's love of his work gave him fulfillment. John also logged he worked for the National Park Service Road Crew in Yellowstone, John contracted hay bailing, had horses until only a few years ago and loved to win at cards. Blessed be his memory. John is survived by his: Wife, Linda Pierce of Pray; Daughter, Dorothy Juhnke and her husband, Hugh of Livingston; Son, Bob Pierce of Wareham, MA; 16 Grandchildren; 1Great-Grandchild; Sister, Rose Rigler and her husband, David of Pray; Sisters-in-law, Eldonna Pierce of White Sulpher and Gloria Pierce of Pray; Nieces, nephews and many other relatives and friends. John is preceded in death by his Parents, Dorsey and Mae Pierce; Son, D.J. Pierce; Grandson, Jason Pierce; Brothers, Charles and Alvin Pierce; Daughter-in-law, Ann Pierce. Arrangements are with Franzen-Davis Funeral Home and Crematory. Online condolences available at franzen-davis.com