Robert William Pierce

Robert William Pierce, 76, Marshall, Michigan, passed away at home on August 31 after a long illness surrounded by his family. He was the son of William and Sadie (Hohmann) Pierce (both deceased) of Delaware County, PA. 

Bob graduated from Chichester High School, Boothwyn, PA, where he ran track and field. On a track scholarship Bob attended Ohio Wesleyan University and then received a Master’s Degree in Secondary Education-English from West Chester University in PA. 

Bob taught high school English in the public schools for over 30 years. 

He is survived by his wife, Frances (Roberts) Pierce and two sons, Andrew (Leah) of Kalamazoo, Michigan and Joshua of Los Angeles, California; three granddaughters, Clara, Emily, and Violet Pierce of Kalamazoo; sister Kathy (John Clark) of Glen Mills; seventeen nieces and nephews and many great-nieces and nephews. 

Bob was an avid photographer and birdwatcher and shared his combined talents with many organizations through slide shows, and with gifts of his annual wildlife calendar to friends and relatives. 

His passion for photography touched all facets of his life and resulted in a legacy of photo albums of his wife and family for every year of their lives together from 1977 through 2023. He also accepted the role of photographer at the weddings of many friends and family members.

Bob was a member of the Downingtown Education Association, PSEA-NEA Retired, the Audubon Society of America, the West Chester Bird Club, and several photography and book clubs. 

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, September 15, at 11:30 a.m. at the First Congregational United Church of Christ, 145 East Capital Avenue NE, Battle Creek. A luncheon will follow in the church hall. All are welcome!

Memorial contributions can be made to the Elara Caring Hospice Foundation, 209 E. Washington Ave., Jackson, MI 49201, or to the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center, 1500 East Medical Center Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48109. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services. Please visit https://www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guestbook, or to share memories and pictures with the family.