Tom G. Pierson

In Loving Memory of a Dedicated Husband, Father and Grandfather, Farmer and Friend

Tom Pierson, 76, of Eldora, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at MercyOne Waterloo Medical Center in Waterloo, Iowa, surrounded by his family. Funeral Services will take place on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Abels Funeral Home and Cremation Services - Grundy Center Chapel. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, November 17, 2025 at Abels Funeral and Cremation Services - Grundy Center Chapel. A private graveside service will take place at a later date. A time for fellowship where cookies and bars will be served immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers donations should be made to the Iowa Lions and local food shelves in each of the donors home area. https://www.iowalions.org/donate/

Celebrating a Life of Wisdom, Kindness, and Service

We are saddened to announce the passing of Tom Pierson. Born on June 5, 1949, to parents Russell and Clara (Mason) Pierson in Eldora, Iowa, he spent his formative years growing up in Eldora. His childhood was filled with joy, especially during his time on the family farm near the Iowa River and Pine Lake State Park. An intelligent student and active athlete, he excelled in the classroom, on the basketball court and running track. He graduated with honors from Eldora High School in 1967. Post high school, attended Iowa State University where he “walked on” and proudly played basketball for the Cyclones. He later transferred to the University of Iowa to study Political Science. He had a deep love of both current events, history and followed politics throughout his life. While attending the University of Iowa, he took a job working at the University of Iowa Memorial Union. He worked for Linda Lea Elder, who, instead of simply being his boss, turned out to be the love of his life! They were united in marriage on June 9, 1972, at Nichols United Methodist Church, in Nichols, Iowa.

Life Rooted in the Land

From a young age, Tom had a deep respect for the land. He grew up working on his family farm, tending to crops and Herford cattle. He greatly enjoyed arrowhead hunting on the farm. He enjoyed sharing stories of his arrowhead collection. He had a deep respect for nature and the local history it represented. He and Linda later settled in West Liberty, where his work with the land continued in partnership with Carey Farms. Through seasons of planting and harvest, he approached each day with curiosity and diligence, always seeking better ways to nurture his crops, care for his animals and support his family. The farm was a haven not only for his family, but also for neighbors and friends who found comfort in his wisdom and warmth.

A Father’s Love

As a father, he was the cornerstone of his family. He taught his children the value of honesty, responsibility, and kindness, leading by example in every aspect of his life. Whether sharing stories at the dinner table or offering guidance through life’s challenges, his gentle encouragement and unwavering support created a home filled with laughter and love. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his children and grandchildren, who carry forward his teachings and traditions. “The Girls”, as he called granddaughters, Emma, Mae and Rena, were such an immense joy for him. He was proud of their intellect and drive and wished nothing but success and happiness for their futures. He was famous for always giving them a hug and handshake, that always passed them each a “Grandpa $20” as they said “see you later”.

Service to Community

His dedication extended far beyond his own fields and family. With an open heart, he volunteered countless hours on community projects, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. In West Liberty he was active with Jaycee’s and Lions Club and served on the West Liberty school board for years. He served as a township trustee and on 4-H extension council for Muscatine County. He and Linda opened their home to a Foreign Exchange Student from Germany in 1989. Domenika Ahlrichs was an important part of the family’s life and they have kept in touch throughout the years. He was deeply rooted in his faith and was active in the West Liberty United Methodist Church, the Eldora Methodist Church and the Steamboat Rock Presbyterian Church, where he served on various committees. He and Linda served in the Litte Rock Ministry in Eldora as well. His generosity touched many lives and he believed that true fulfillment came from hard work, devotion, giving back, and his acts of kindness will be remembered for years to come.

Remembering a Gentle Soul

Those who knew him will remember his keen intellect, love of history and heritage, reading books by Henry David Thoreau, Mark Twain and Ken Follet. You could always find him cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes in basketball and football. He enjoyed watching sports of all kinds and reruns of old TV shows from the 70’s. He had an incredible ability to see the good in every person and situation. He leaves behind a legacy of resilience, empathy, and selflessness —a legacy that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

While he may no longer walk among us, his spirit lives in the family he cherished, the land he farmed and the communities he uplifted. Tom was a remarkable individual, whose intelligence, compassion, and unwavering devotion shaped the lives of those who knew him. He was devoted husband and father, and a tireless volunteer. His life was a testament to the values of perseverance, hard work, love, and generosity.

Tom Pierson was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Clara Pierson. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Linda Lea Pierson, daughter Jen McCubbin and granddaughter Mae McCubbin (Rosemount, MN), daughter Sarah Lyle, granddaughters Emma Lyle and Rena Lyle (West Point, IA), Brother Jerry Pierson (Arlington, Texas) Brother-in-law, Mark (Marsha) Elder, Nichols, IA and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.