Walter Bert Pierce Jr.

Walter Bert Pierce Jr., 88, of Yuba City, CA, passed away on November 19, 2024. Born to Walter Pierce Sr. and Geneva Harshner in Live Oak, CA, on May 15, 1936. 

He graduated from Yuba City High School in 1954, and went on to Yuba College and Chico State University. Walt and Wilma were married in 1956. They were blessed with 65 years of marriage before Wilma passed in 2022. 

Walt and Wilma had their first baby in 1960, a beautiful baby girl they named Penny, their family was complete when baby boy Brad arrived two years later. They raised their children in Yuba City, CA, until moving to Paradise, CA, and later Magalia, CA, in the late 80's. 

Walt had a heart full of generosity. As a dedicated civil engineer, he contributed to the development of Sutter County and later the City of Paradise, leaving his mark on the community he loved. 

After years of hard work and dedication, he retired from the City of Paradise, but his legacy of service and commitment to others lived on. 

Walt was not just a professional, but a proud member of the STARS, "Sheriff's Team of Active Residents in Service," volunteer community, where he shared his time and energy to help those in need. 

His generosity extended far beyond his work, he always put others first and brought joy to those around him. 

Walt was a follower of Christ and a member of the First Baptist Church of Paradise and then later, River Valley Church in Yuba City, CA. 

His love for game shows, especially those on the Game Show Network was apparent and you could always count on him to share a funny story or joke. 

Above all, it was his love for family that defined him. He cherished the time spent with those he loved and his warmth made those moments unforgettable. 

He is lovingly remembered by his daughter and son-in-law, Penny and Tom Samson; son, Brad Pierce and finance, Kris Ormazabal; grandchildren, Dan and Jill Ullrich, Carol Ullrich-Hasch and Tom Hasch, Melodi Samson, Gavin Samson, and Cassie Evans; great-grandchildren, Emma Ullrich, Brody Ullrich, Claire Ullrich, and Lili Evans; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Clark and Karoly Zaft. Many nieces, nephews, cousins and honorary family in California and Tennessee; as well as many friends who he considered family. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Wilma; his father, Walter Pierce, Sr.; mother, Geneva Harshner; and sister, Sandra Sparkman. 

Whether he was cracking a joke or just enjoying an evening with family, Walt's presence was a gift. He will be deeply missed, but the laughter and love he shared with us will live on in our hearts forever. 

A Graveside Service will be held at the Live Oak Cemetery, 3545 Pennington Road on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at 1 PM. Pastor Sam Walker will be officiating.