Gloucester - Gloucester - Ronald Keith Pierce, 73, passed away at home peacefully with his daughter and grandson by his side, ensuring he knew he was loved unconditionally.

Ron was born and raised in Gloucester, Massachusetts where he lived with his father George, Mother Mary and brother Rick. Ron attended Gloucester High School prior to enrolling in the Army. Shortly after his 18th birthday Ron was deployed to Vietnam, where he served his country from 1969-1971. During his deployment he was promoted to Sargent. His bravery and dedication were recognized with the Bronze Star and The Army Commendation Medal.

Not long after his return Ron met his best friend and forever love Kathy. They married in 1975 and moved to Rockport. They had their daughter Candi a few years later. Ron worked for the Rockport Post Office before transferring to Salem where he worked for many years. Ron, Kathy and Candi enjoyed a great life together in Rockport. They spent a great deal of time traveling together. A few of their favorite places were Jamaica, Punta Cana, Saint Lucia, Hawaii, Aruba, The Bahamas and Cancun. He took pride in the life they lived, simple but meaningful. His main goal was always to spend as much time as possible together as a family. Ron was also very dedicated to physical fitness. He enjoyed long distance running, and long-distance biking. His most memorable run was the Mount Washington Road Race.

In 1985, Kathy was seriously injured at work, which changed the family forever. Ron, without hesitation, devoted 110% himself to providing Kathy with the most comfortable life he could. All while making sure he was the best dad to Candi. After Candi graduated the family moved to Naples Florida in hopes to provide Kathy with a more comfortable life without the cold.

In 2002, Ron and Kathy welcomed their first and only grandchild Kamron. From the moment Kamron arrived he and Ron were inseparable. Ron played the role of papa, best friend, role model, biggest fan and father figure. After Kathy passed away in 2011, Ron, Candi and Karmon, moved back to Rockport and started the next chapter together as 3. There wasn't a day that went by that Ron didn't miss his beloved wife Kathy, but he knew he needed to continue loving and caring for Candi and Kam. He was the best support system never missed a game – rain or shine home or away winning or losing he was there. Chorus concerts, magic shows and any other thing Kam could participate in he was there. If ever you could find those two separated it would be for just a short time and likely due to Kamron working or being in school. With his free time Ron would tend to Kathy's grave, keeping it as beautiful as possible and then headed to the boulevard for a long walk. You would often find him with his headphones on, smiling and saying hello to anyone and everyone who walked by. Without fail Ron ended his walk by stopping at the World War II and Vietnam Memorial to pay his respects to the many men and women who served our country from Gloucester.

Although Ron is no longer physically here, he will never be gone from the hearts of those who called him their family or friend Angela; nieces, Alexis and Ashley Smith; his brother, Rick; his nephews and niece, Chris, Greg and Missy Pierce. Ron was also grateful to those who became extended family over the years especially, Cody Burns who Ron loved as a son, Brad and Lindsay Pierce, and Oliver, Marian and Catherine Maloney. He was also grateful to Leslie Parkhurst for opening her home during the holidays to him and his family after Kathy's passing.

Candi and Kamron would like to also send a heartfelt thank you to a very special group of VA employees who provided Ron with the highest level of dedication and commitment to care, Craig, Justin, Deb, Jason, Courtney, Dr. Oneil, and of course Hudson we can only hope you know the difference you made. You have each earned a special place in Ron's heart. We would also like to thank the Gloucester MA Friday morning Vietnam Veterans group for the difference they each made in his life, your friendships will never be forgotten.

Ron was predeceased by his best friend and love of his life, Kathy, who he will be put to rest with on their 50th wedding anniversary. As well as his sister-in-law, Rosemary; brother-in-law, Harvey; parents, George and Mary and in-laws, Marguerite and Myron.

The family would like to invite anyone who would like to honor Ron to please join them this Saturday, May 10th at 11am in Beech Grove Cemetery, Rockport. There are no additional services planned as of now.

Ron's hope for his family and friends is that we find peace, love and happiness in our lives.

Arrangements by Greely Funeral Home, 212 Washington Street, Gloucester, MA 01930.

For online condolences please visit www.greelyfuneralhome.com