Herman Pierce

Herman Pierce, 79, of Bethel Township, died Tuesday, August 3, 2021, in Premier Armstrong Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Kittanning.

Born September 20, 1941, in North Apollo, he was a son of the late Harold and Dorothy (McElhattan) Pierce.

He attended Jackson School in Kiski Township, Taylor Run School in Bethel Township, Bethel Township Elementary, and Ford City High School.

From a young age, it was evident that Herman had a strong work ethic.  While growing up, he could be seen mowing neighbor’s yards, and, in his teen years, he worked at a neighbor’s Christmas tree farm. 

In 1960, he relocated to North East, PA, having worked Meade Farm, Sunshine Packing Company, and the Welch’s plant.  On December 21, 1961, he met Barb in the St. Gregory gym before a Christmas program.  That was the day he met the love of his life.  On November 15, 1964, they were married in St. Gregory Roman Catholic Church. 

After moving back to the area, they settled in Bethel Township.  He then worked for Churchill Plumbing and Heating in Ford City and Rosenberger Plumbing and Heating in Kittanning.  He then worked for Hyde Park Foundry and Machine Company, from which he retired after suffering a major stroke.

Herman was a life member of the Bethel Township Volunteer Fire Department, having joined as a junior firefighter at the age of 17.  He was on the forest fire crew, and also served as an assistant chief for a year.  He was also a member of the Western Pennsylvania Firemen’s Association.

He was a dedicated parishioner of Christ, Prince of Peace Parish, Ford City.  Herm was usually the first person in the church for Mass, often arriving hours in advance to ensure that everything was in order.  He also served as an usher and altar server, and was a member of the Holy Name Society.

Mr. Pierce is survived by his loving wife, Barb; two daughters, Judith Gray of Bethel Township, and Danielle Kromer (Roger, Jr.); four grandchildren, Jessica and Logan Gray, and Avrey and Cole Kromer; and great-grandson, Ryan Brocious; and a brother, Herbert Pierce of Utah.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Richard, who died in 2002; and an infant brother in 1939.

Friends will be welcomed from 6-8 p.m. Friday, in the Welch Funeral Service LLC, 1032 Fourth Ave., Ford City.  Parting prayers will be offered at 10 a.m. Saturday, in the funeral home.  Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:30 a.m. in Christ, Prince of Peace Church, with Father Eric Dinga as celebrant.  Interment in Lawn Haven Burial Estates.  To share memories or condolences, please visit www.welchfh.com.

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