Don Pearce

Donald William Pearce, Jr., known to many simply as Don, passed away on January 18, 2026, in Cancun, Mexico, at the age of 64. His memorial service will be at 4:00 pm, Saturday, January 31st at Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar. Visitation will be 4-6:00 pm, Friday at the funeral home and continue one hour prior to his service. www.hafh.org

Don was born in Cedar Falls, Iowa, to Donald W. Pearce, Sr. and Marlys A. (Sassaman) Pearce. He was baptized at Valley View Baptist Church in Cedar Falls and remained grounded throughout his life by the values of faith, service, and community. A proud graduate of Tripoli High School, Class of 1979, Don stayed actively involved with his alumni community, valuing lifelong connections and friendships.

On July 21, 1979, Don married Lisa (Rieckenberg) Pearce. Don was father to Neal (Brandi) Pearce, Tyler Pearce, and Justin (Divine) Pearce, and a proud grandfather to Jackson Pearce (8) and Alexandra Pearce (6).

Don wore many titles throughout his life-father, partner, grandparent, friend, REALTOR®, and community leader-but at his core, he was someone who genuinely cared for people. That care extended not only to family and friends, but to tenants, bus riders, colleagues, and even strangers whose paths briefly crossed his own. Those who knew him loved him.

An adventurer at heart, Don loved four-wheeling, riding motorcycle-most recently his three-wheel Spyder-hunting, range time with his boys, daily coffee with the guys, traveling, and always saying yes to new experiences. He thoroughly enjoyed a family trip to Mexico, creating memories that will be cherished forever. He also proudly fulfilled a lifelong dream by riding Route 66 from Chicago to Santa Monica, a journey that perfectly reflected his curiosity, independence, and love of the open road.

Don's professional journey began early, working on a dairy farm. After earning a degree in Restaurant Hospitality, he went on to manage Bonanza restaurants, where he formed lifelong friendships with the group fondly known as the "shack boys." Don later discovered his calling in real estate, where his leadership left a lasting mark.

Involved in numerous volunteer efforts throughout his life, Don served multiple terms on the Willmar Area REALTORS® (WCAR) Board of Directors and as a Regional Representative for the REALTOR® Relief Foundation, helping communities recover in times of crisis. In later years, he found great fulfillment mentoring and supporting emerging business owners throughout Kandiyohi County. His dedication and impact were most recently recognized when he was named WCAR 2025 REALTOR® of the Year.

Don's legacy of service, kindness, and commitment to the community will continue to be felt for years to come.

Don is survived by Lisa Pearce; sons: Neal (Brandi) Pearce, Tyler Pearce, and Justin (Divine) Pearce; father, Don (Emily) Pearce, Sr.; mother, Marlys Hazen; siblings: Kevin (Julie) Pearce, Todd (Deb) Pearce, and Kim (Karen) Curtis; and grandchildren: Jackson and Alexandra Pearce.

To honor Don's memory, memorial contributions may be made to the Pearce family, who will forward donations to organizations meaningful to Don, including the REALTOR® Relief Foundation. Donations to the REALTOR® Relief Foundation may also be made directly by texting RRF4DON to 71777.