Lyle Leslie Pierce, 81, of Willcox, Ariz., passed away Sunday, Jan. 6, 2013, in Chandler, Ariz.

He was born Nov. 9, 1931, in Kalamazoo, Mich., to Alva and Gladys (nee Avery) Pierce.

Lyle grew up on the family farm in East Leroy, Mich. He worked at Clark Equipment Company in Battle Creek, Mich., for a number of years, and later in life was involved in managing auto part stores. Among the many sports Lyle loved doing were bowling, fishing, and sport car racing.

He is survived by his wife, Joy (Wakeman) Pierce; sister, Marie (Leonard) Schneider; sister-in-law, Juanita Pierce; children, Sandi McComb, David Pierce, Linda (Gary) Selbee, and Diane Norris; step-children, Ron and Dennis Allen; 24 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. Lyle is preceded in death by his first wife, Margaret (Owens) Pierce; parents; and brother, Kenneth Pierce.

A private family service was held.

Arrangements are by Tempe Mortuary.