MELVYN RALPH "MEL" PIERCE

1923 - 2015

Pierce, Melvyn Ralph "Mel"

August 11, 1923 - May 19, 2015

Melvyn R. Pierce, 91, of Dana Point, CA, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, May 19, 2015 while resting at home, in the presence of his beloved family.

Mel was born in Pennsylvania and moved to Dana Point on July 4, 1930, where he lived for the next 85 years. He grew up enjoying the peaceful beauty of a small town, surfing, fishing and establishing his businesses in town. He attended school in San Juan and later went on to join the Army Air Corps during WWII. He served aboard a B29 as a flight engineer, flying fuel to France and wounded soldiers back to England. Upon his return, he and his family established a ceramics business in Dana Point which later became one of several laundromats that he owned and managed until his retirement. Mel was active in the community, being one of the founding members of the Doheny Volunteer Fire Department and a founding member of the Dana Point Yacht Club. He was also actively involved with South Shores Church acting as moderator and contributing as an usher many years. He will be remembered for his leadership, love of our Lord, mentoring as an example and an incredible wit. He was also recently honored as the Patriarch of Dana Point by the Dana Point Historical Society. Mel was married to his longtime partner, best friend and wife, Helen for over 65 years. He is survived by his wife, Helen; daughters, Sandy and Becky, son, David and their spouses; and daughter-in-law, Margaret Pierce. He was preceded in death by his son, John. He was a proud father, grandfather, great grandfather and uncle to numerous others.

A celebration of life is planned for June 6, 2015, 2 P.M. at South Shores Church, 32712 Crown Valley Parkway, Dana Point, California. Gifts in his memory may be given to South Shores Church.