Pierce James Roberts

Pierce J. Roberts, 83, of Battle Creek, MI died at Bronson Battle Creek on Friday, November 22, 2013.

Pierce was born May 28, 1930 in Calumet, MI to Pierce and Georgia Alberta (Gilmore) Roberts. He grew up in Calumet, was a 1948 graduate of Calumet High School and from Northern Michigan University with majors in History and Biology. He then served two years with the U.S. Army 1953-55. Pierce returned to Northern Michigan University and earned his teaching certificate and went on to the University of Michigan where he received a Master's Degree in Biology. Pierce first taught in Coldwater and Hudson, prior to his 35 year career at Battle Creek Central High School, which began in 1959. At BCCHS he taught History and Government; during which he coached football, track, and girls volleyball.

Pierce married Betty Ann Johnson in Marquette, MI on June 12, 1954. Surviving are his wife, Betty Ann; two sons, Pierce "Gregory" (Shannon) Roberts of Winnemucca, NV and Mark Roberts of Battle Creek; a daughter, Julie (Michael) Regner of Battle Creek; seven grandchildren, Bryan (Kelli) Regner, Adam (Katie) Regner, Erika Regner, Misha (Michael) Stannard and Hannah, Pierce James and Camille Roberts; and four great-grandchildren, Tyler, Elyse, Kayla and Anna Regner. Pierce was preceded in death by his son, David J. Roberts September 5, 2005; by his parents and sister, Marcia Poull.

Pierce was a member of the Civil War Round Table, was a History Teacher of the Year in the State of Michigan, a member of the Northern Michigan University Hall of Fame and the BCCHS Bearcat Hall of Fame. He was elected to the Michigan High School Coaches Hall of Fame and Pierce's blood ran Blue and Gold for the Bearcats. He enjoyed woodworking, music and especially spending his summers at the family cottage in Gwinn, MI.

Friends will be received 4:00-7:00 p.m. Tuesday, November 26, 2013, at the Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home. Private services will be held for the family. Inurnment will be at Haglund Cemetery in Skandia, MI.

Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of ones' choice. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.