Obituary of Erik M. Pierson

Erik M. Pierson April 24, 1938-November 3, 2012 Pine Bush, NY Erik Marshall Pierson, age 74, died peacefully on November 3rd. Erik was a gentleman, a "gentle giant," always putting others before himself. His life was of service to anyone he met, and he could be counted on for his listening, encouragement, and a hug. He found joy in nature whether it was watching the deer eating from the apple trees, tending to his vegetable garden, or watching the hummingbirds in the trumpet vine from his home by the Shawangunk Mountains. Erik's smile and gentle spirit will be missed and remembered by his family, friends and community. Born in Poughkeepsie to Erik O. and Charlotte A. Pierson, he was raised in Whitinsville MA and was the oldest of three children, including his sister JoAnn and brother David. Many may not know that Erik served as a Chinese linguist with Army Intelligence and spent time stationed in Okinawa, Japan. After earning his Master's Degree at the University of Massachusetts, he married his wife Linda Davis on August 13, 1966. They relocated to Pine Bush where he began his career at Pine Bush High School as a social studies teacher and became active in the community. His career spanned 37 years, and he retired in 2002. Erik was a dedicated and innovative educator who challenged his students to learn and excel. He was known for his work ethic and also worked with his cousin, Joe Russell, for many years at Billings Memorials after school and during summers. Erik was a member of many community and Christian organizations. Civically, as a young man, he was active with the Republican Club and was a councilman. At the request of his high school students, Erik served as a Senior Girl Scout Leader, and was both a board member and President of the Pine Bush Credit Union. Erik was active with many faith-based organizations which included Marriage Encounter, Tres Dias, International Students, Inc., Good Samaritan, and Benjamin House. Those who hold him in their hearts include his loving wife Linda, children Brenda and husband Herb Dorman, Kristen Illes and partner Jeff Manning, Erik and wife Katie Pierson, Kurt and wife Lynn Pierson, grandchildren; Julia, Daniel, Matthew and David Narvaez, Connor Illes, Taylor and Riley Pierson, and Ander and Kohl Pierson. Godchildren include; Lynn Decker and Laurel Decker Benjamin, as well as Bill Ribbecke. He is also missed by his faithful dog Pugs. Erik was predeceased by his granddaughter Michele Peace Narvaez, beloved friend Corinne Decker, stepmother Helen Pierson Friese, and brother-in-law Read Albright. A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 24th at 1:00 pm at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church, 2520 State Rt. 208, Walden, NY 12586. Arrangements will be made through William M. Gagan Funeral Home and personal condolences can be shared via www.wmgaganfuneralhome.com. Memorial contributions can be made to Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org, Gideon's International at www.gideons.org, or Good Samaritan food pantry ministry at Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church.