Val Patrick Pierson's Obituary
Val Patrick Pierson, 73, of Rodney, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026, at Butterworth Hospital. Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Fred William “Bill” and Crescentia June Pierson. Val grew up in the area and graduated from Wyoming Park High School.
In 1982, he married Babs Michelle Nordyke. They welcomed two sons, Paul in 1983 and Noah in 1987, before settling in Rodney, Michigan, where they made their home for more than 30 years.
Val built a long career in the HVAC industry, collecting countless stories of the equipment he brought back to life and the rooftops he climbed along the way. He worked with Seaman’s Mechanical in Grand Rapids before venturing out on his own as the proud owner of V Pierson Mechanical. Around Big Rapids, he was a familiar sight—cruising in his big white box truck, with his wife, Michelle, happily riding in the passenger seat.
Val didn’t have customers—he had extended family. While he genuinely enjoyed the work, it was helping others that meant the most to him. He was always ready to lend a hand, often needing reminders from family and fellow business owners to actually charge for his time.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Michelle; sons Paul (Angela) and Noah (Laura);
grandchildren Grace and William; Matthew (Tiffany) Maczynski and Earl Rehkopf, whom he considered bonus sons; and many sisters- and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; parents-in-law; sister, Amy Simmons; and brother-in-law, Martin Nordyke.
Val’s family takes comfort in knowing there were many happy tails awaiting him at the Rainbow Bridge, with his longtime canine companion Maggie leading the pack.
Memorial contributions in Val’s honor may be made to Animal Rescue Coalition of Mecosta County.
Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date.
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