SOUTH THOMASTON — John A. Pierce, 73, died peacefully, surrounded by his two loving children, Saturday, January 8, 2022 at Maine Medical Center in Portland.

Born in Rockland, January 27, 1948, he was the son of Kenneth Arnold and Marilyn Robishaw Pierce. Educated locally, John started his education in a one room school house in South Thomaston and graduated from Rockland High School. Following high school he enlisted in the US Navy, serving aboard an aircraft carrier in Vietnam for four years before being honorably discharged in 1971.

Upon returning home, John married Donna Cook in 1972. Together they had two children, Kenneth and Jill.

After separating and subsequently divorcing in 1981, John later married Tina Widdecombe in 1989 and they had a son, Cameron. John and Tina separated and divorced in 2007 and John became an eligible bachelor.

Always a hard worker, John has held several positions over the years. For many years he dedicated his life to the family dairy farm, haying the fields and keeping animals. He worked as a mechanic and for many years worked at FMC. Later he attained his CDL license and drove a truck for Manset Marine delivering all over the state, often passing his daughter on the road while she was attending college. Most recently he was devoted to Lowe’s. Acquiring his job there when the store opened and held that job until the time of his passing. His children remember he was a dedicated and hard working employee where ever he worked while never being afraid to stand up for himself or his coworkers.

John’s number one priority in life was his family. He was extremely proud of his four grandchildren, and never missed a sporting event, concert, school activity, or birthday whenever possible. His granddaughter said he was always quietly on the sideline supporting them. He loved teaching them things, and often took them target shooting.

John was an avid supporter of UConn Women’s Basketball, rarely missing a game. He always made sure his family knew when they won or even had the occasional, but rare loss.

He was well traveled, and enjoyed collecting various items from his trips. Riding his motorcycle was another favorite pastime. John had a soft spot in his heart for animals, he taught his children to hay and care for horses and other farm animals. He enjoyed raising and showing Afghan hounds over the years. Recently he spent his time at home with his cat Toe, watching TV, playing on his computer or soaking in his hot tub, although he always found time to keep his yard looking good. His family appreciated his great sense of humor and the extreme work ethic that he taught them.

John is survived by his children, Kenneth Pierce and his wife Laurel of Cushing; Jill Pierce of South Thomaston, Cameron Pierce of Easton; his grandchildren, Gabrielle Simmons, Duncan Natale, Raven Pierce and Oliver Pierce; as well as his good friend, Marty Rubenstein, whom you would have found him visiting at least once a week.

Family and friends are invited to visit Wednesday, January 19, 2022, from 4 to 6 p.m., at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland, where a celebration of his life will be held Thursday, January 20, 2022, at 1 p.m. Private interment will be held in the spring.

To share a memory or condolence with John’s family, please visit their Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.