Rama Pierson, 91

Rama Oleta Pierson, age 91, of Sturgis, passed away at her home Wednesday, Aug. 22, 2012.

She was born July 6, 1921, in St. Louis, a daughter of the late Fay and Julia (Hobgood) Shafer.

Rama spent her early childhood on a farm in Howe, Ind., and moved to the Sturgis area in the early 1940s. She also lived in several parts of the country as she owned and operated hotels in Indiana, Georgia and Florida, to name a few. After retirement, she moved back to her parents home in Sturgis.

She was married to C. Ward Pierson for many years and they raised two children together before the marriage ended in divorce.

Rama enjoyed traveling, being involved with the historical society and the genealogical society, and spending time out at the lake.

Surviving are one son, Eric (Jaylynn) Pierson of Sturgis; seven grandchildren, Alex (Sarah) Pierson, Justin Pierson, Tiffany (Andy) Cline, Nathaniel Pierson, Rachel Pierson, Emily Pierson and Jordan (Kirsten) Pierson; six great-grandchildren, Keegan, Xander, Liam, Tyler, Alysa Jane and Lachlan; and a daughter-in-law, Arlene Pierson.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and one son, Charles W. Pierson II, in 2010.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Sunday at Hackman Family Funeral Home — Rosenberg Chapel, 807 E. Chicago Road, Sturgis.

Funeral services celebrating the life of Rama Oleta Pierson will be held at 1 p.m. Monday at the funeral home, with Pastor Jeff McNally, officiating.

Graveside services and interment will follow in Oak Lawn Cemetery.

Her obituary is also at www.hackmanfamilyfuneralhome.com, where personal messages of support can be left for the family.