Roger Owen Pierson died Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2006 at the St. Cloud VA Medical Center following a short illness. He was 82 years old. At his request, there will be no funeral services at this time. Cremation has taken place and a graveside memorial service with a military salute will be held next summer at the Crystal Lake Cemetery.

He was born Sept. 21, 1924 in Minneapolis, Minn., Roger lived most of his life in Minnesota. He served as a corporal in the 21st Carrier Squadron in the Army-Air Force during WWII receiving the Good Conduct medal and the American Theatre Service medal.

On May 1, 1970, he married
his childhood friend, Lois Carolyn (Nordstrom) Pierson. Roger and Lois were happily married for 36 years until March 2006 when Lois passed away from cancer.

Rogerís love of aviation led him to a career as an airline mechanic for Northwest Airlines. He was an accomplished airplane builder and held a commercial pilotís license. He was an officer in the EAA Chapter in Bloomington and a member of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. Roger belonged to many organizations throughout his life including: Zion Knights Templar in Minneapolis and the Zion Commandery No. 2, Westphal Robbinsdale American Legion, Babcock VFW Post #5555 of Bloomington, Zuhrah Shrine, Plymouth Masonic Lodge, Compass Lodge and the American Legion in Rush City. Roger volunteered as a Meals on Wheels driver in Rush City. He and Lois attended church at Grace Methodist in North Minneapolis and later at the Evangelical Covenant Church in Rush City.

Roger was a likeable, quiet man who always reached out to people in need. He was a devoted husband and friend to many others.

Roger is survived by a sister, Bernice Eckenrode of Lebanon, Penn., stepdaughters Carolyn Benepe of Sheridan, Wyom.; Susan Benepe of Lander, Wyom.: and Mary Sytsma of Estero, Florida; a sister in-law, Sally Sarff; five nephews, Kent, Grant and Gregg Sarff and Dan and Tom Eckenrode and a niece, Regina Lagakos.

Memorials may be made to a charity of the donorís choice. Cards or inquiries may be sent in care of Susan Benepe, 793 South 9th Street, Lander, WY 82520

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