Helen Ruth Pierce

Helen Ruth Pierce, 83, of Wasilla, Alaska, formerly of Independence, died March 14 in Wasilla. Helen was born in Seattle. She received a bachelor of arts degree in Library Sciences from the University of Washington, and a Masters degree in Teaching from Oregon College of Education. She was employed by Henry Hill Elementary School in Independence from 1966 to 1986 where she taught fourth grade. After her education in Washington, Helen left the comfort of her hometown for Southern California to pursue her career as a librarian. She lived an independent life until she met her future husband, Martin Pierce. They were married shortly after, and Helen moved to Martin's home state of New York. They migrated to California and then Oregon. Helen loved Oregon history, especially Native American history. Helen loved to read and visited many historic sites. Her love of books led her to volunteer at many libraries after she retired from teaching. Helen also had a passion for baking and loved to garden. She was preceded in death by her husband, Martin W. Pierce, son, Thomas G. Pierce and brother, Richard Rowland. Survivors include her daughters, Christine Mark Lee of Wasilla, Teresa Larry Smith of Baker City and Kathleen Pierce of San Jose, Calif.; brother, Neil Rowland of San Jose; eight grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. Celebration of life will be 1 to 3 p.m., Saturday, March 24 at the Oak Tree Inn at Oak Knoll Golf Course in Salem. Burial will be at Restlawn Cemetery in Salem. Alaskan Heritage Memorial Chapel of Wasilla, Alaska handled arrangements and Farnstrom Mortuary of Independence handled local arrangements.