Michael Edward Pierce, 78, of rural Columbia City passed away at 4:40 p.m. on Monday, August 31, 2026, at his home.

Born on September 11, 1947, in Washington, Indiana, he was the son of the late Glen and Ethel (Whitehead) Pierce. Growing up on a farm near Mackey, he graduated from Mackey High School in 1966 and served in Vietnam with the U.S. Army.

Returning to Indiana, he went to work for the Ball Corporation, becoming a supervisor in the production plant. After 27 years with Ball, he worked for Mullinix Packaging in Fort Wayne as a supervisor in their production plant. He retired after 17 years of service.

On September 8, 1991, he married Julie Lynn Gilmore Heritage. They made their home at Loon Lake, later moving to rural Columbia City.

Developing a strong work ethic in childhood, Mike was always busy. He enjoyed yardwork, cutting wood, and maintaining his property. From his southern Indiana roots, he was an avid St Louis Cardinals fan, even having a brick in his name placed at Busch Stadium in St Louis. When he couldn't attend a game, he followed them on the radio. He loved to fish, especially the White River near his hometown, and enjoyed telling a good story.

In retirement, he liked to ride his Honda motorcycle and have dinner out with his wife and son Jamie at local restaurants.

Mike is survived by his wife of almost 35 years, Julie; their son Jamie Pierce of Columbia City; his son, Shawn (Stephanie) Pierce of Columbia City; step-children, Jason (Jennifer) Heritage of Columbia City and Joseph Heritage of Portland, OR; grandchildren, Emma, Gracia, Pfieffer, Jackson, Jadyn, and Mackey; and a sister, Luann Pierce of Fort Branch, Indiana.

He was also preceded in death by a son, Nicholas Pierce; a grandson, Michael Pierce; and a brother, Bradley Pierce.

Visitation is from 1 p.m. Friday (Sept 11th) until the funeral service at 3 p.m. at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City. Burial is at the South Park Cemetery with Military Honors presented by the Korean War Honor Guard.

Memorials in Mike’s honor are to final expenses c/o Smith and Sons Funeral Home.