Robert L. Pierson III

Robert L. Pierson III, 77, of Camillus, passed away on Friday at the Syracuse VA Medical Center.

Born in Syracuse and raised in Solvay, Bob called Camillus his home and left an indelible mark on the community. He was a man of unwavering commitment and resilience, traits that defined his service to his country during the Vietnam War as a member of the US Navy.

For 39 years, Bob was employed at Edgcomb Metals as a tractor trailer driver until his well-deserved retirement in 2010. His dedication and work ethic were a testament to his character, earning him the respect and admiration of colleagues and friends alike.

Bob was a man of diverse interests. He was an avid fisherman, a passion he shared with those lucky enough to join him, especially his granddaughters. His love for baseball was evident in the enjoyment he found watching the sport, cheering for his favorite teams. Winters were a time of warmth and relaxation as he and his beloved wife, Barbara, spent cherished times in Florida.

Family was paramount to Bob, and he cherished every moment spent with them, particularly relishing the role of a doting papa.

Bob was predeceased by his parents, Robert, Jr. and June.  

Surviving are his loving wife of 53 years, Barbara; daughter, Michele “Shelly” Rice of Falmouth, MA; son, Mark (Marcia) of Elbridge; granddaughters, Charlotte, Allison, and Emma; brothers, Richard (Tiffany) of Scottsdale, AZ, and Ronald (Betty) of Medway, MA; sisters, Lee (Jim) DeLucia, and Linda (Nick) Bianchi, both of North Port, FL, and Susan (Tom) Alexander of Mesa, AZ; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Bob during a visitation on Friday, December 1, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus.    

A Celebration of Life, honoring Bob, will be held on Saturday, December 2, at 10 a.m. at the funeral home.

Bob will be laid to rest in Greenlawn Cemetery, Warners.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to the Syracuse VA Medical Center, c/o Volunteer Services, 800 Irving Ave., Syracuse, NY 13210-2716.   

This serves as a fitting tribute to a man who not only served his country but also cared deeply about the well-being of his fellow veterans. Bob's legacy lives on in the memories of those who knew and loved him, and his spirit will be forever present in the hearts of those he touched.