Claremont, SD: Warren “Tudge” Eugene Pierson, 95, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his family on April 26, 2026.
A memorial service will be held Friday, May 15, 2026 at 2:00 pm at the Claremont Community Church, with inurnment at the Huffton Cemetery.
There will be an hour visitation prior to the service at the church.
Warren was born on September 6, 1930, in rural Marshall County to Harvey and Florence (Suurmeyer) Pierson. He grew up attending several country schools, eventually finishing at Freeland Country School through 1944. He graduated from Claremont High School in 1949 and continued his education for one year at Northern Normal School.
A multi-sport athlete, Warren participated in football, basketball, track, and baseball throughout high school. He was proud to have been part of the first two seasons of Claremont’s six-man football teams, which went on to set a national record for consecutive wins. He also played on the 1948–49 Claremont basketball team that completed an undefeated regular season, and he contributed to the 1949 Class B State Track Championship team, placing in three events at the state meet.
Warren began farming with his father in 1949. In 1953, he was drafted into the United States Army during the Korean War, leaving shortly after spring planting. Following his honorable discharge in 1955, he returned home to continue farming until 1985. After retiring from active farming, he rented out his land and remained active through custom harvesting into the early 1990s.
On July 12, 1964, Warren married Judith Lynne Ladner. Together they built a life rooted in family and community, welcoming two sons, Christopher (born March 8, 1965) and David (born June 6, 1969).
Baseball was one of Warren’s lifelong passions. While stationed in Japan, he played on an Army baseball team and continued playing amateur baseball into his 40s. Later, he devoted many years to umpiring youth and amateur games, beginning when his sons started playing. Warren and Judy were devoted supporters of their sons and grandchildren, attending countless games over the years. Even after their family’s playing days ended, they remained loyal fans of Claremont baseball, and Warren rarely missed a chance to watch a game on television.
Warren found his greatest joy in time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchild.
After receiving his honorable discharge from the Army, Warren became a lifelong member of Harold Feser Legion Post 262, remaining actively involved for many years. Warren also cared for the Legion’s Army jeep, keeping it at his farm and maintaining it for use in local parades. He was very proud when son David was able to play Taps at military funerals while he was in the firing squad.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Judy; his sons, Christopher (Sarah) of Silverdale, Washington, and David (Amy) of Claremont, South Dakota; his grandchildren, Drew Pierson, Patrick (Magaly) Pierson, James Pierson, and Kirsten Pierson; his great-grandson, Patricio Pierson (Patrick and Magaly); and many beloved nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Florence Pierson; his brothers, Donald, Duane, James (Chuck), DeWitte (Tim), and Frank; and his infant sister, Vernetta.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Claremont Baseball, Harold Feser Legion Post 262, or the Aberdeen Humane Society.
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