Kenneth F. Pierce

Kenneth Fogg “Papa” Pierce was born on December 9, 1931 in Chattanooga, Tennessee and passed away on July 22, 2011 surrounded by his loved ones at his home in Huntsville, Texas. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Margarete. Two siblings, brother Thomas P. Pierce and wife Lilly of Carthage, Texas and sister Lois Morgan and husband Robert of Humble, Texas. Two sons and two daughters, Konrad Pierce and wife Kathy of Lake Jackson, Texas, Christa Wood and husband William of Huntsville, Texas, Laura Lea and husband Kelly of Tyler, Texas and Tom Pierce and wife Ruby of Huntsville, Texas. Twelve grandchildren, Arick Pierce and wife Leslee, Nathan Pierce, Haley Coburn, , William Wood and wife Christan, Kenneth Wood, Kelsey Lea, Karley Lea, Thomas Pierce Jr., Tori Pierce and Troy Pierce and four great-grandchildren. Other survivors include sister in-law Gisela Bisson of Huntsville, Texas, sister in-law Christa Henrich and husband Tony of Lahnstein, Germany and many nieces, nephews and friends. He is preceded in death by father John Pleasant Pierce, mother Jessica Faye Bardwell and brother in-law Normand A. Bisson. Kenneth served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War where he earned many medals and awards to include the Combat Infantryman Badge, National Defense Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal and the Korean Service Medal with one Silver Service Star and one Bronze Service Star for participation in several defensive and offensive campaigns. After the Korean War he reenlisted in the United States Air Force where he received a special Air Force Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service. He retired as a Tech Sergeant in 1969. In 1971 Kenneth began his career with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice as a Correctional Officer. He served the state of Texas for twenty years and retired in 1991. After his retirement Papa enjoyed fishing and collecting classic model cars. Papa also loved working in his wood shop where he made many precious memories with his hands. He was a dedicated husband, father and friend and loved spending time with his many grandchildren. Family will receive friends Tuesday, July 26, 2011 from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. at Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Huntsville, Texas with services on Wednesday, July 27, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Black Jack Cemetery in Huntsville. Service officiated by Reverend David Valentine. Pallbearers will be his six grandsons. The family would like to express our thanks and gratitude to the wonderful people from First Choice Hospice for their love and care during this difficult time. Those wishing to leave memorial condolences for the family may do so at www.shmfh.com.

Kenneth F. Pierce

December 9, 1931 - July 27, 2011