James R. Pierson

June 6, 1948 - September 19, 2021

James "Rick" Pierson, age 73, of New Haven, passed away on September 19, 2021. He was born on June 6, 1948. Rick was born in Detroit, Michigan, and as soon as he was big enough he was off running the street, until the age of 17 ,when he joined the Marines. After a few months of training he was dropped in Vietnam on his 18th birthday. Through the Marines he was able to see the world, and was even blessed by a Buddhist Monk. After serving two tours in Vietnam, earning many medals and ribbons, he was honorably discharged as a Corporal. Once stateside and surrounded by life-long friends, Rick worked hard, and played harder. In his recent years he loved to drink a beer and talk about the good old days, some of his fondest memories were living in The Junkyard, or working in the bike shop. Rick enjoyed waking early in the morning to sit in the woods to hunt, or by the water to fish. But his true love was motorcycles! Whether tinkering with a bike or going a 100mph, riding brought him a freedom he never found anywhere else. Rick is survived by his two children, Jim Strevel, Donna and her husband Chris Rose. His greatest pride and joy in life was his granddaughters; Elizabeth and Sophie, Bailey and Stormy. Rick was over filled with love and pride for his girls! Services will be private. Arrangements in care of Jowett Funeral Home - New Haven.