Pierce, “Studs,” or “Pete” — one of our best-liked members who knew every ’53er and served two non-consecutive terms as secretary — died Feb. 16, 2012, in Cincinnati after a valiant battle with cancer.
Born in New York City, Pierce entered Princeton from Blair Academy. He ran cross-country, wrestled, played rugby, and was a show-stopper in Triangle Club’s kickline. He dined at Ivy and roomed senior year with Cy Horine, who said of Pierce, “Life was an adventure for him.”
He was a lieutenant in the artillery and received an M.B.A. from the Wharton School. He moved to Cincinnati in 1993 to take over West Carrollton Parchment Co., the family business.
Cherishing his memory are his beloved wife, Joan; daughters Aimee Coolidge and Katherine Main; son Cameron; stepdaughter Sinclair Barden; and 11 grandchildren. Representing ’53 at his service were Charlie Barham and wife Carolyn, John Spencer and wife Natalie, Bill Davis, and Hugh Richardson.
Katherine recalled that her father “loved music and had a song for every occasion. After many a family dinner, he would push back his chair, rise to his feet, and sing, ‘The party’s over. It’s time to call it a night...’” The party may be over here, but it continues in heaven for Pierce and his dear friend, Dick Ellwood.