Thomas shot into this world like a football on October 26, 1982, at a whopping 10lbs. 4ozs. He had blonde curly hair and dimples as deep as the ocean. When he laughed, he laughed with his whole body which made his laugh even more infectious.
Growing up Thomas enjoyed multiple activities and sports. He played hockey, wrestled, sang in the Metropolitan Boys Choir, played the drums and piano. He also enjoyed taking family trips to Lutsen and Florida and snowmobiling with his Grandma Pierce.
Thomas graduated from Champlin Park High School in 2001 and later went on to pursue an Associate Degree in automotive and heavy-duty diesel at UTI in Illinois. After graduating he worked in the automotive field and the oil fields of North Dakota before coming back home to Minnesota.
Thomas had his struggles in his life, but his personality allowed everyone he met to like him and love him even more. As a recovering addict he was extremely proud of his 18 years of sobriety and was happy to share his journey with anyone who asked.
A “big guy” in size, an even bigger love for his family. This was especially evident when it came to his two nephews, Dion Jr. and Dexter. He took the time to be with them and take them places when he could. He was generous to a fault with his love and care for them. The love he had for his extended family and friends was no different. When we would have family get togethers he would make a point of trying to talk to everyone…you could say he got his love of conversation from his Grandpa Barder.
You couldn’t help but love him and his infectious laugh. He could mimic any movie character and he loved making jokes and sharing crazy movie antics with everyone. He could play a mean game of cribbage and 500 with his grandparents. On our family trips to Lutsen with the Will family, he was the only boy surrounded by 5 girls…this didn’t phase him in the least. He became the girls’ protector and watched out for them.
He and his Grandpa Barder had the same personality and could make a brick wall talk to you! Gifted with the art of conversation that would never end those two could talk for hours. When Grandpa Barder passed Thomas missed him greatly. His Grandpa Barder was a special mentor to him. In addition, his Uncle Tim was a great blessing. Thomas often said that he cherished his talks greatly with his uncle. He also stated that these talks helped and guided him through some tough times.
Thomas will be missed immensely, but he will be forever in our hearts and minds.
He is preceded in death by his Grandpa and Grandma Barder, Grandpa Pierce and his Aunt Linette Pierce.
He is survived by his parents, Kent and Terry Pierce, sisters Kris (Dion) Wagner, Nina Pierce, nephews Dion Jr. and Dexter, Grandma Evelyn Pierce/Johnson (Grant) and many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
Please join us to Celebrate Thomas' Life on Monday, September 20th, at the Church of St. Timothy, 707 89th Ave NE, Blaine. Visitation will be held from 9:00 - 11:00 am, Funeral Mass at 11:00 am, and Luncheon to follow in the Hospitality Room.
Memorials preferred to the family. Fond memories, photos and expressions of sympathy may be shared below for the Pierce family.
