David William Pierson

David William Pierson, 69, of Dublin, Ohio passed away August 16, 2018 at Riverside Methodist Hospital, Columbus, Ohio with his wife and daughter at his side. Dave was born January 6, 1949 in Berea, Ohio and teased his wife that a sign had been erected there to commemorate the occasion. He was preceded in death by parents, William R. (“Bill”) and Ruth M. (Bump) Pierson and granddaughter, Alex Violet Ackart. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Janet (Kempfer); daughter, Elizabeth “Liz” (Garrick) Ackart; grandsons, Eli and Liam Ackart of Columbus, OH; sister, Sue (Lynn) Elfner of Delaware, OH and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Dave was interested in cars, airplanes, pecan pie and cookies (eating them) and sports. He enjoyed a variety of sports and played baseball (shortstop) for Westerville High School. He credited sports for teaching him teamwork, persistence and sportsmanship. He was a Cleveland Indians fan. A graduate of The Ohio State University, he was a fan of the Buckeyes, attending many baseball, football and basketball games, as well s some rugby, rowing, lacrosse and hockey events. He was active in his church, community and fraternity. He served on church committees and volunteered for activities. Among his activities with North Columbus Jaycees, he chaired one of their Whetstone Park Fourth of July fireworks celebrations, was involved in housing for senior citizens, worked at a haunted house and served as a president of their chapter. He was an Ohio Academy of Science’s State Science Day volunteer. He participated in his Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity’s programs and projects, including some as an alumnus. Valued friendships of long duration for both he and Janet have resulted. Family was important to him and he loved them, including the family pets. Married to Janet 45.5 years, he was a loving and supportive best friend, confidante and travel companion. His extended family grew to include hers as well. He supported Elizabeth by insisting on academics and attending her events and sports activities, whenever possible. He welcomed son-in-law, Garrick, to the family, enjoying discussions and learning to follow the New York Giants (But was ever-hopeful that his Cleveland Browns would improve). Young grandsons Eli and Liam were the lights of his life and he loved them dearly, playing games and building with Lego blocks. Family also included beloved friends and neighbors and was ever-expanding. Dave was one of the “good guys”. His integrity and good name were important to him. He took responsibilities seriously and planned for the future and found it difficult to understand why others would choose not to do so. He was a true “softie” (he tried at time to disguise it) although he would express his displeasure and offer guidance, when warranted. He believed in working for what one wanted and taking care of what one had. Ever mindful that “the devil is in the details”, he was able to think long-term and could sacrifice in the short-term for the greater good. Kind and considerate, he was a great sounding board for sorting ideas and addressing concerns. He could calmly and rationally discuss his opinions (preferring fact to generalities) and listen to those of others. And he loved to laugh, enjoying jokes, grandsons’ antics, puns and “Piersonian wit” (Janet laughingly called it “half”). He was patient and usually slow to anger. His expectations were high and no less for himself than for anyone else. His patience was sorely tested by health issues in later years that caused discomfort ad hampered his activity and occasionally necessitated hospitalization. He seldom complaines, remaining realistic, but optimistic about his health. He and janet appreciated the concern, expert care and laughter experienced with his physicians and other care providers. He managed to adapt and kept moving and engaged, assuming a new role as a resident representative and making friends in his new home at Friendship Village of Dublin. The Central Ohio MG (Myasthenia Gravis) Support Group was a valuable resource. MG is an autoimmune neuromuscular disorder that causes varying weaknesses and fatigue of voluntary muscle groups. The people who struggle with MG are know as “snowflakes”, all different in how they are affected and in the therapies that may help them. The member of the support group were very welcoming and helpful in our MG experience, which is the reason we ask consideration that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America, Inc., 355 Lexington Ave., 15th Floor, New York, NY 10017-66903.

David William Pierson

January 6, 1949 - August 16, 2018