A memorial service was held on March 29 for William C. "Bill" Pierce, 81, of Visalia. He passed away on March 25 at his home after a lengthy illness.
He was born on March 9, 1923 in Whittier, Calif. He grew up in Long Beach and attended both University of California at Berkley and UCLA colleges. Between Long Beach Junior College and University of California at Berkley, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, eventually serving in India as an electronics technician, connected to squadrons flying the "Hump."
After receiving an engineering degree from UCLA he worked for several firms selling precision parts for jet engines. After moving to Exeter in 1962, he began working for Waterman Industries in the Engineering Drafting Department. Subsequently he became the sales manager for the Mid West United States, opening an office in Indianapolis, Ind. where he and his wife Margo lived for five years. Upon retirement they returned to Visalia where he enjoyed golf, boating, fishing, traveling and making golf clubs.
He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Margo; three children, Dennis Pierce and wife, Elaine of Lake Forest, Calif., Greg Pierce and wife, Cindy of Fresno and Diana Pierce Babcock and husband, Dennis of Minneapolis, Minn.; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
His wife and family praise God for having the opportunity to love and be loved by this gentle man and the joy of knowing he is with the Lord free of earthly pain and suffering.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Visalia First Assembly Building Fund, 3737 Akers Rd., Visalia, CA 93277. Arrangements were under the direction of Salser and Dillard Funeral Chapel, Visalia.
