Michael J. Pion

Michael (Mike) J. Pion, 51, passed away unexpectedly in the loving arms of his better half Lynne, at his home on Sunday, April 12, 2026. Born on April 6, 1975, in New Bedford where Mike lived most of his life. He was a graduate of Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School, Class of 1993.

He worked as a Bridge operator at the Veteran’s Memorial Bridge in Somerset and previously was employed by James J. Long Electric earning respect through reliability, steady commitment, and the quiet pride of a job done well.

Mike found genuine joy in the simple, lasting pleasures of life. He enjoyed fishing at the Canal, golfing with his son Nate either at a fancy course or sneaking himself into the Whaling City golf course after hours. He loved camping in his younger years with Kara and his children at the Bourne Scenic campground a tradition which he continued with Lynne and the kids to listen to The Freeze Pops play. Mike loved to vacation from simple places such as New Hampshire or Ogunquit Maine (one of his favorites) to something more tropical like Aruba or St. Pete, Florida. His most recent trip was to Myrtle Beach with all 5 of their children for one last Bucket List Family Vacation. He was a collector of all kinds—drawn to the interest and character that everyday treasures can hold. Of his various collections, sports cards were a real passion and he has passed that pursuit on to his son. At home, he took a keen interest in both maintaining and displaying his fish collection with multiple aquariums with unique underwater scenes and also enjoyed the tradition of gardening passed down from his father. He had a true green thumb, and he took particular pleasure in flowers and in the calm satisfaction of helping things grow. He loved his Sunday morning drives and got excited when he came across a Yard sale as he was forever looking for items that caught his eye. Attending the Flea Market with Nate both as sellers and buyers was something they always looked forward to. Mike and Kay enjoyed antique shops, and he would always be convinced to stop at the crystals store to grab some items and then go to dinner. He enjoyed attending the WaterFires in Providence, being sure to get Sangria and Hot Chocolate for the kids. He especially LOVED time at the beach both with Lynne and the kids but also just going by himself and relaxing for hours at a time. Often times Kay and Mike would walk the beach together to appreciate the serene environment. Mike attended various concerts with Kay even if it wasn’t his favorite genre of music.

Those who knew (Mike) will remember the warmth he brought to gatherings with family and friends, and the way he could lift a room with an easy presence—always the life of the party with his larger than like personality yet always grounded in an appreciation for what mattered most. Above all, Mike loved spending time with his children, and that devotion stood at the center of his days.

Mike is survived by his devoted life partner Lynne Dolan; his children Kalynne and Nathan Pion; the mother of his children, Kara (Sousa) Columbare and her husband Tyler, his stepchildren, Idayah, Abigayle and Cameron (Dennis); his late father Ronald Pion and his mother Claire (Cabral) Pion; his brother Christopher Pion; his niece and goddaughter Ruby Pion; Robert Pion (Uncle Bob) and late wife Elaine (Aunt Elaine); Gilbert Cabral (Uncle Gilly) and late wife Dorothy (Aunt Dot), their two daughters and families.

Visiting hours will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026 from 4-8 pm at the Waring-Sullivan Home at Fairlawn, 180 Washington St., Fairhaven. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 9:30 am in the funeral home followed by burial in Riverside Cemetery.

Flowers are welcome or donations can be made to The Jimmy Fund (www.jimmyfund.org)