Warren Pierce

Warren Pierce held great passion for the things he loved, but foremost was the love and dedication he had for his family. He counted his wife and children as his greatest blessing and with them by his side, all things were possible. His talent and love for music was his inspiration, and he worked hard to provide a good life for those he held at the center of his heart. Sadly missed, he will be forever remembered.

The year 1959 was a pivotal time in our nation’s history as the world of culture, politics, race, science and society in general began taking on new ways of thinking. Although America was booming with industry and manufacturing, many changes were already being woven into the fabric of the nation and would largely reflect what was yet to be. With technology at an all time high, the Race for Space was officially launched while tensions overseas produced headlines of impending war. It was within this time of transition when Carroll and Ethelyn (Gruber) Pierce welcomed the birth of their son, Warren into their hearts on November 27, 1959.

Born and raised in Plainwell, Michigan, Warren was the youngest of five sons who added to the bustling household. As a boy he enjoyed a typical childhood while sharing great adventures with his brothers and many friends. He attended the area schools and was involved in several sports during his educational years. Having attended Plainwell High School, Warren played defensive back and receiver for the football team and was well rounded when it came to baseball. He mainly served as an outfielder and catcher, but did well for his team wherever he was needed. Into his later years he loved playing softball and frequently bowled on several leagues.

During Warren’s teenage years society had greatly changed. During this time, Warren acquired a love for rock and roll. After graduating in 1978, his passion for music only intensified. He became lead singer in the rock band, The Nelson Brothers Band and reveled in the opportunity to tour regionally, having played at venues in Detroit, Chicago and areas in Indiana. His time in the band also brought more advantages his way than he ever expected.

In 1981, a gig on New Year’s Eve at the Old Otsego Inn made all the difference in Warren’s life when he laid eyes on a pretty young woman in the crowd. After one of his sets he set out to introduce himself to the table of fun loving girls and his heart skipped a beat after meeting Cindy Hueschen. To Warren, her smile could light up a room and her eyes spoke of the love and tenderness she held within. From that moment on, Warren and Cindy made a lasting connection, becoming nearly inseparable. They dated for several years and fell deeply in love which was evident for the rest of their days.

On September 3, 1983, Plainwell United Methodist Church set the scene for their everlasting dedication in marriage. One of his most favorite memories of their wedding day included Cindy’s nervous repetition of the same mistake reciting her vows. Theirs was a story of unbridled commitment and devotion, and together they truly inspired one another. Warren and Cindy not only shared a great love for each other, but their love and devotion of family would eventually be a lasting treasure that would be forever remembered.

After deciding to leave the band fulltime, Warren took a job with Angle Steel. He then took a position with the Perrigo Company from where he later retired after 15 years of faithful service. Nothing could have made Warren and Cindy happier or more proud than their three sons, Michael, Lance and Tyler. He was a very involved father in the lives of his boys and supported them in each of their endeavors. He never missed any of their school or sporting events, and as they grew older he loved just hanging out with them. Many fond memories are recalled, like the time he took the kids to the local airport to watch skydivers there. With his love for cats and dogs, their home was never without a fury friend or two. He especially loved the companionship of a beloved family dog which could often be found by his side.

Music continued to be Warren’s passion, so it wasn’t surprising when he began running karaoke at the Tenth Street Saloon on Friday and Saturday nights. Outgoing, he had a wonderful way with people and loved to socialize. It was a great way for him to stay into his music, and always the talker, meet people and have fun. He was a great storyteller and could really chat up a storm.

There were many things that Warren held close to his heart. At the center was his devotion as a husband and dedication as a dad. He was also involved in things that he found interest in, such as recently serving on the City of Plainwell’s Park and Recreation Board. When his son Michael lost his precious daughter Christin to SIDS, Warren worked through his grief as a grandfather by taking a proactive stand. He organized annual golf outings to raise money for Tomorrow's Child, an organization designed to help and support families through the loss of a child.

Warren was truly saddened by the extreme and sudden death of his wife and best friend, Cindy in June of 2010. He was able to move on and was so appreciative of the love and support offered by his vast circle of friends. This past Halloween Warren became quite ill and it was soon discovered he had some very severe health issues. In the comfort of his son’s home, Warren sadly died at the age of 51 on Friday, January 7, 2011.

Warren Pierce was a man who held his family above all. A loving and devoted husband, father and friend, he will be lovingly remembered and forever missed.

Visit with his family and friends, view his life story film and share light refreshments on Friday, January 14, 2011 from 4-7 PM at Life Story Funeral Home-Plainwell, 120 S. Woodhams (685-5881). His funeral will be held on Saturday, January 15, 2011, 2:00 PM at the same location. Along with his wife and granddaughter, Warren was preceded in death by his father, Carroll. His family includes his three sons: Michael (Jody) Hueschen, Lance Pierce and Tyler Pierce; his mother, Ethelyn Pierce; grandchildren: Gordon, Kaylee, Hannah, and Erica LaDuke whom he loved like a daughter; brothers: Boyd Pierce, Phil (Mary) Pierce, Denny Pierce, and Harold Pierce; many other relatives and friends. Please visit Warren’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com where you can read his life story, archive a memory or photo, sign his memory book online before coming to the funeral home or make a memorial donation to Tomorrow’s Child.