Michael Ray Pierce, of Bradenton, Florida, passed away on Saturday, February 8, 2020, at the age of 74. He was born on February 27, 1945, in Howell, Michigan. Michael attended Eastern High school, located in Lansing, where he was the captain of the school's track team. He also ran cross country and graduated in 1963.
Michael is survived by his wife of 55 years, Diane Pierce; son Nicholas Pierce; and daughter Dalilah Nichole; brother Carle Pierce (Lexie Pierce).
During his time in Michigan, Michael was a Deacon and Elder at the First Christian Church of Lansing. He often visited the Ingham County Jail, ministering to the inmates. Michael also worked on the Chaplin Committee at the Lansing General Motors Plant and was a Health and Safety Instructor in many different areas in the Supervision department. He retired from General Motors in 1999.
Michael found a child in an unsafe situation, and didn't have to think twice; he decided something had to be done. It was at this time that Michael and his wife Diane adopted their Grandchild and made their little pumpkin their daughter.
Michael moved his family to Bradenton, FL. He attended the Roser Community Church on Anna Maria Island, FL, where he worked on the food pantry, serving at the One-Stop, helping many people. Michael loved spending time in Mexico, especially the Caribbean Sea, where he made many friends. Michael thought this would be the time to relax with his family, but he ended up running for City Councilman and, after a few years, was encouraged to run for Mayor of Bradenton Beach. Michael was diagnosed with the early onset of Alzheimer's during his second term in office. It was a long journey from 2008 through 2020 for Michael and his family.
Michael was preceded in death by; his parents Edgar and Mabel Pierce, Brother Robert Pierce, and Brother Bill Pierce.
A Memorial Service will be held at a later time at Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home located at Manasota Memorial Park, 1221 53rd Ave E Bradenton FL 34203.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ManasotaMemorial.com for the Pierce family.
