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   Surrounded by the love of his family, Ordean Loren Pierce passed away peacefully on March 20, 2026, at the age of 82. Born in Minneapolis to Loren and Mabel (Erickson) Pierce, Ordean grew up with a strong sense of family, faith, and the value of hard work—qualities that would follow him throughout his life.

   A proud 1962 graduate of North Branch High School, Ordean answered the call to serve his country in 1968. During his time in the U.S. Army, he earned multiple commendations for dedication and excellence, honors that reflected both his courage and his character.

   On May 16, 1970, he married the love of his life, Sally Swenson. Together they built a life rooted in family, perseverance, and devotion. They raised their children, Darren and Karen, on the Pierce family farm in North Branch—a place filled with laughter, chores, memories, and the unspoken lessons that come from living close to the land.

   Ordean worked for 30 years at Waldorf Paper Company, rising from fork‑truck operator to Supervisor of the Maintenance Department. Even while working full‑time, he continued tending the farm he cherished. Later, he and Sally embraced a new adventure together when they purchased Pierce’s Country Store, joyfully serving their community for a decade before retiring.

   Giving back was a natural part of Ordean’s spirit. He volunteered as a gun‑safety instructor and served as Quartermaster for the local VFW. His love of music, history, hunting, and fishing enriched his days, but nothing delighted him more than traveling with Sally—especially their road trips out West, where the mountains always called.

   Above all, Ordean’s greatest pride was his family. He is lovingly survived by his children Darren (Joleen) and Karen (Scott) Carpenter; grandchildren Cassondra Kenton, Jacob Pierce, Adam Pierce, Riley Carpenter, and Madison Carpenter; and great‑granddaughter Addison. He is reunited in heaven with his beloved wife of 56 years, Sally; his parents, Mabel and Loren; his aunts Edith Chauvin and Alice Ahrens; uncles Henry and George Erickson; and his brother Dale Jorgenson.

   A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 4:00–6:00 PM at Grandstrand Funeral Home in North Branch, Minnesota. Burial will follow on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery, with a luncheon afterward for family and friends.

   Ordean leaves behind a legacy of kindness, service, hard work, and love—a steady, quiet strength that will continue to guide those who knew him. His stories, his laughter, and the gentle way he carried himself will be treasured always.

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