Sturbridge : Ronald A. Pierce, 85, of Sturbridge, MA, died on Friday, June 24th, in the UMass Memorial Hospital - Harrington, after a period of declining health.

He leaves his beloved wife of many years, Adriane (Van Gils) Pierce; his son, Randy Pierce of Brookfield; his two daughters, Penny Eagleton and her husband Mark of Millbury and Sandra McCoy and her husband Bill of North Carolina; three step-sons, Adam Gaudette and his wife Amy of Sturbridge, Christian Gaudette and his fiancée Kristen Galizio of Buzzards Bay and Paul Gaudette of Oakdale, MN; a step-daughter, Lisa Gaudette of Leicester, MA; his sister, Carole Berube and her husband Al of Fall River; 13 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.  He was predeceased by his brother, Bob Pierce.

He was born in Fall River the son of Merrill and Blanche (Larrivee) Pierce.  Ronald graduated high school and enlisted in the United States Navy serving honorably during the Korean War.

He owned and operated two businesses, Pierce Service Enterprises and Pierce Awning and Canopy Company for many years.  Prior to that he worked for the Town of Leicester and the Prudential Insurance Company.  He was also an independent Real Estate Broker and Salesman.

Ron was an avid sports lover and great fan of all Boston teams, especially the Bruins and Red Sox. He loved the Rhode Island coast and especially enjoyed day trips to Narragansett with Adriane to sit by the water there. He enjoyed visits from his extended family in the Netherlands and also enjoyed socializing with local friends and family. Ron will be remembered by many for his great love of family and friends; his wicked sense of humor; and his strong work ethic.

Special thanks are extended to the Sturbridge EMTs and First Responders, and to the Nursing Staff at Harrington Hospital.

His funeral service and burial will be private. There are no calling hours.

The Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St. Southbridge, is directing arrangements.

www.morrillfuneralhome.com