Bert David Pearson

Bert David Pearson, 85, of Simpsonville, passed away on January 14, 2026 holding the hands of his wife and daughter as he was wrapped in prayer. Now, let's dive into a beautiful and productive life of an amazing man!
Bert was born in Hammond, Indiana on November 12, 1940. The family moved to Valparaiso, Indiana where he lived in the country and enjoyed many adventures with his brothers and beloved dog, Rascal. He also listened to radio programs which ignited his lifelong love of science. This time was the source of many stories which he loved to remember.
As usual, school interrupted the fun, but in 1960 Bert graduated from Jackson Township High School in Valparaiso, IN. In 1967, he graduated from Valparaiso University with a degree in Biological Sciences. He also enjoyed being on the Valpa Track Team and even broke a school running record. Throughout his life he proudly displayed his Valparaiso University apparel and especially loved it when someone recognized his Alma Mater.
In 1967 his brother, Paul, as brothers do, set Bert up on a blind date with RN Nurse, Sue Fischer. Wedding bells, baby girls, lots of camping, a dog named "Raggs" and a busy career life in the scientific field was up and running!
Bert, Dad, Papa, Mr. Bert, Uncle Bert, no matter how you knew him, everyone loved having Bert around. Why? Bert believed in family and loved them fiercely! He loved a good sci-fi story, an elusive Northern, a sweaty run, another beer with his brothers, a visit from his daughters, playing a good joke on someone, making his own beer, helping his grandchildren with math, fresh food from the garden, and a good deal. If there was a dance floor, Bert was moving and grooving. If something needed to be fixed, Bert figured it out. DIY car repairs, Bert grabbed the manual and dug in! In addition to keeping busy, Bert was grateful that his Grandfather was a survivor of the Titanic. He sometimes referenced the tragedy and said, "we are made of strong stock!"
Modesty and humility were important to Bert. He will be remembered for his kindness to people and animals. He never bragged or brought up his accomplishments, but his determination and strong work ethic made him a great role model.
Bert took classes and studied on his own time to learn more about hematology (blood). As a result, he worked on intra-aortic balloon pumps and some of the earliest models of blood oxygenators and heart/lung machines used in ground-breaking heart transplant surgeries. He invented and earned a U.S. Patent for a Blood Gas Simulator.
He also excelled in running and qualified for a coveted spot into the 1997 Boston Marathon Race. It was the historic 100th running of the Boston Marathon.
Bert is survived by his loving wife of nearly fifty-seven years, Sue Pearson; his daughters, Michelle Pearson-Langowski (Pat) and Erika Will (Jeff); his grandchildren, David and Heidi Langowski; his brothers, Richard and Ernie Pearson; three nieces; two nephews; four great-nieces; and two great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bert and Elizabeth Pearson; his brother, Paul Pearson; his sisters-in-law, Joyce Pearson, Carol Pearson, Sharry Pearson, Allie Patterson, Patsy Spears, and Ella Dennis; his brothers-in-Law, Erwin Fischer, Emil "Joey" Fischer, and Vincent Fischer; his niece, Pamela Pearson; and his nephew, Kurt Halfmann.
There will be a Recitation of the Rosary on Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Southeast followed by a time of visitation until 7:30 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, January 23rd at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church. Burial will be in Graceland East Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully asks everyone to visit someone at a nursing home. You can always stop by the front desk there and ask how you can help. Many residents feel forgotten and would love even a brief connection. Tell them Bert sent ya!!
Bert's family would like to extend their deepest appreciation to NHC Mauldin, The Palmetto's and The Pearl at Five Forks for their friendship and kindness to Bert during his stay and illness.
Bert, Dad, Papa, Uncle Bert, Thank you for all the love, laughter and guidance you brought to our lives. You are gone from our sight, but never from our hearts. We love you and miss you, already.
Friends are encouraged to share their favorite memories of Bert with the family by clicking on the button labeled "Share A Memory".