Rick Pierson's Legacy: Help Future Engineers

Richard (Rick) Pierson, 59, passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack on October 23, 2024, at his home in Krum, Texas.

Born on January 25, 1965, at Camp Pendleton, California, Rick was the eldest son of Ronald and Mary Pierson and brother to Ronnie, Jerry, and Nick. Growing up as a military child, he experienced life in many places, developing a rich cultural perspective. His unique upbringing and affinity for sports in his youth developed a lifelong passion for adventure.

After graduating high school, Rick enlisted in the United States Army, serving for four years at Fort Irwin Army Base in California. His fascination with machinery during his service fostered a sense of curiosity and, eventually, leadership in the subject. This interest in machining led Rick to pursue the craft as a career for the rest of his life.

Rick first married Jackie, with whom he had a son, Douglas, and later Jeanne, with whom he welcomed his daughter, Natalie, and son, Johnathan. After mastering his skills in machining, he later relocated to Dallas, Texas, where he embraced his dream of becoming a cowboy and found love with Ruth, his third wife. In joining Ruth’s family, Rick became stepfather to her two daughters, Kira and Elena. Together, Rick & Ruth established a prototype machining business on

their farm in Krum, where Rick’s deep love for animals flourished.

Later in life, Rick worked at the University of North Texas as the Engineering Manufacturing Facility Manager, mentoring students in machining and helping them manifest their engineering projects. He took much pride in his work with UNT and was grateful for a job which allowed him so much creative freedom.

As a devoted Christian, Rick was actively involved in the Christian Motorcycle Association where he forged many friendships and strengthened his faith.

Known for his love of dancing, Rick frequently participated in country-western dance events and enjoyed karaoke with friends and family.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, November 2, 2024, in the chapel of DeBerry Funeral Directors.

In lieu of gifts, the family requests donations to a scholarship fund for engineering students established in Rick’s memory. Our goal is to reach the initial $5,000 necessary to begin establishing an endowed fund to support engineering students in perpetuity. Our ultimate goal is a total fund of $30,000 for a perpetual scholarship fund, and we appreciate every one who helps us continue Rick's legacy.