> Details

Advanced Search:


Regular Search
❮ Go Back to Listings
GLEN WALLACE PIERCE Obituary pic GLEN WALLACE PIERCE Obituary pic

GLEN WALLACE PIERCE

Born: May 03, 1911

Date of Passing: Jan 26, 2015

Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or Memory

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

GLEN WALLACE PIERCE May 3, 1911 - January 26, 2015 It is with sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Glen Wallace Pierce at St. Boniface Hospital on January 26, 2015 at the age of 103. He leaves to mourn his wife of 72 years, Margaret (Daisy); children Maureen McNaught (Quinton), Rosalind Bezanson (Barry), Garvin Pierce (Elvy), and Stewart Pierce (Valerie); grandchildren Ian, Ryan, Sarah, Tamara, Cameron, Meghan, Braden, Matthew, Jamie and Andrew; great-grandchildren Callan, Kaitlin, Madison, Taven, Erik, Hannah, Ethan and Ella; his brother-in-law Andrew Karsgaard, sister-in-law Jean Pierce, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents William Wallace and Edith Ella Pierce, and his siblings Lloyd Pierce, Olive Karsgaard and Irma Boulter. Born in Winnipeg (at home on Toronto Street next door to his lifelong friend Mitchell Sharp), Glen attended Laura Secord and Kelvin Schools where he excelled in music, track and field, and academically. As he reached university during the Depression various scholarships and teaching private piano lessons helped finance his education, as did a car-pool which included Marshall McLuhan. Glen often spoke of the lively discussions that ensued as they drove out to the "new" campus in Fort Garry. He graduated in 1933 Magna Cum Laude with a B.A. honours degree in Classics and went on to the Faculty of Education. Before embarking on a career of school teaching, he decided to explore the possibilities of becoming a concert pianist. On the advice of his teacher, Leonard Heaton, he studied at the Royal College of Music in London, England with teachers Harold Craxton and Arthur Benjamin. The Second World War interrupted his studies and he was advised to return to Canada immediately. Further studies were resumed after the war when he went to New York to study advanced conducting and opera at Julliard with Fritz Mahler, and choral conducting with Peter Wilhousky. It was there that he met Jan Peerce and became interested in both operatic and cantorial repertoire. (Glen was later to coach cantors, rabbis and bar mitzvah students.) He also learned to play instruments in the various sections of the orchestra so that he could better serve as a conductor. He began his teaching career in Winnipeg 1 School Division as a substitute teacher. It was at Lord Selkirk School that he was to meet the love of his life, Daisy, who became his constant support in all his future endeavours. In addition to his public school teaching Glen maintained his ever-increasing private music pupils. While at Hugh John McDonald School teaching English he was approached by the principal to take over for the music teacher who had become ill. And as they say, the rest is history. He especially enjoyed teaching the junior high boys and moved up with them to Daniel McIntyre School where he continued until he was appointed supervisor of music. He retired in 1975. In addition to teaching, he took on conducting and touring with the Manitoba Schools Orchestra, the University Symphony, and the Glee Club, but his greatest joy soon became working with high school students. Often his choirs numbered more than 350 students. He imbued in many of them a love of Gilbert and Sullivan and great choral repertoire. His festival choirs won trophies at the local level, as well as, on several occasions, the George Matheson trophy for the best choir in Canada. The recordings that he produced were played by Max Ferguson on his CBC Rawhide Show. Always ahead of his time Glen chartered an airplane and took members of his "Schola Cantorum" to Britain to perform at the International Eisteddfod in Wales. It was Glen's belief that music was a universal language that could bring people together and lift their spirits in profound and meaningful ways. When the festival was over he took his students to London to experience the theatre, especially Shakespeare and nightly pops concerts at the Royal Albert Hall. Lifetime memories were made and out of this evolved the Daniel McIntyre alumni choir. Glen was a Board member and choir director at the Peace Gardens International Music Camp, taking his choir on a European tour that culminated in singing at the Vatican. Again a special bond formed with these singers. To his very last days Glen was visited by his students who still wished to reminisce. He shared freely his musical talents and his ideas on a healthy life style that would promote longevity. In his busy life Dad's greatest refuge was his beloved Gull Lake. He spent weekends and summers there starting in the 1920s. He enjoyed swimming, sailing, cycling and volleyball and it was in this special place that he had time to enjoy watching his family grow. Even here music played a role. He had a grand piano in the cottage to limber up his fingers for playing the hymns at the little gospel hall. A devout Christian, he never missed a Sunday service and only retired from playing after his 100th birthday. Dad's deep Christian faith was reflected in every corner of his life. During the rest of the year he was a faithful member of Bethesda Church where he frequently played for Sunday night singsongs or Christmas caroling. The last time he played for his church friends was at Christmas 2014. By then suffering from macular degeneration he played all carols requested without music. Dad's greatest joy in retirement was his grandchildren. He took them on daily nature walks and encouraged them to talk about their schooling and future plans. He cajoled them into singing around the piano, as he dreamed of having a male quartet for Sunday services. It was his delight to hear about the career paths they had chosen, to attend their weddings, and to celebrate yet another generation. In his retirement years Dad spent his winters in Clearwater, Florida where he and Daisy soon engaged in an extremely active social life with a very special circle of friends. It was only last year that Daisy and Glen were unable to travel south on their own. Glen had a wonderful life and will be greatly missed by all whose lives he touched. "Next to the Word of God, the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the world." Martin Luther We would like to extend our gratitude to all those at St. Boniface Hospital who provided excellent care for our father/grandfather in his last days. A memorial service will be held at Elim Chapel on Saturday, January 31, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Providence University College, Union Gospel Mission or a charity of your choice.
Publish Date: Jan 31, 2015

GLEN WALLACE PIERCE May 3, 1911 January 26, 2015 It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Glen Wallace Pierce at the age of 103, at St. Boniface Hospital on January 26. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 31 at 1:00 p.m. at Elim Chapel, 546 Portage Ave. Parking restrictions will be lifted on Spence and Young Streets (from Portage to Broadway) from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. A detailed obituary notice will follow.
Publish Date: Jan 30, 2015

GLEN WALLACE PIERCE May 3, 1911 - January 26, 2015 It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Glen Wallace Pierce at the age of 103, at St. Boniface Hospital on January 26, 2015. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 31 at 1:00 p.m. at Elim Chapel, 546 Portage Ave. A detailed obituary notice will follow.
Publish Date: Jan 28, 2015
Publish Date: Jan 30, 2015

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 31, 2015

Condolences & Memories (38 entries)

  • My condolences to all Mr. Pierce's loved ones. He instilled a love of music in me. I still cherish a record we made called "Creation" and marvel that we did it in a public school. Not likely to happen today. When I moved to Victoria later in life I joined a male choir which was founded in 1890 and still operates today. At one point I was elected President and was able to have us sing some of the same pieces that Mr. Pierce introduced me to so many years before. I wish I had gotten to know him better. - Posted by: Ken Sargeant (DMCI '60's choir member) on: Oct 01, 2020

  • Most of our football team was in the choir - noon hours were taken up with choir practice - thank you Mr. Pierce. - Posted by: Ihor Pona (Student 1963-65) on: Apr 03, 2020

  • I have been very honored to have known Mr. Glen Pierce over the years as a student in DMCI choirs (1960-1962), in Festival choirs and as a student of voice. He was the best music teacher ever, and had a great gift of bringing out the best in a student. Always humble and gentle in his teaching, he was a great inspiration to me. My condolences to Daisy. - Posted by: Susan Buhler (nee Dyck) (Student at DMCI, in choirs and private lessons.) on: Apr 16, 2015

  • Our condolences to all the family. What an amazing life and musical director during our time at DMCI. We were blessed to have known him. He is a great loss to the music community. We always enjoyed a phone call from him on his visits to Victoria and he was always pleased to hear when we were both singing in a choir. With fond memories, Marian and Wayne Carter, Victoria, BC - Posted by: W. Carter (Former student) on: Feb 11, 2015

  • Many happy memories of visiting Glen and Daisy in Clearwater, Florida with my parents, Doug & Sue Corbett, who have been lifelong friends. Admired Glen for always swimming in the Gulf of Mexico even when it seemed too cold. Loved our visits recently over afternoon tea. Always enjoy happy memories of Glen playing piano for singsongs. Thankful for the friendship our family has shared with Glen and Daisy. He was a remarkable and Godly man, a role model and he will be deeply missed by so many. Our deepest sympathy to the Pearce Family. - Posted by: Earl and Adele Primeau (friends) on: Feb 09, 2015

  • Condolences to you, Ros, from the Class of '66 - also from my dad, Jack Hodges (#336) who knew him from Sterling House, and is a good friend of Dr. Kaarsgard. - Posted by: Barbara Gibson-Clifford (Hodges) (Nursing classmate to Rosalind -Children's Hospital 1966) on: Feb 06, 2015

  • What a privilege it is for me to have known Mr. Pierce and to sing in his choirs during my DMCI years (1962-65) - and subsequently with the alumni choir, including at a very soggy opening of the Pan Am Games in Winnipeg in 1967. 50 years later, I still have my DMCI Gold Music Pin and cherish it, along with the memories of times spent in the choirs under the direction of a wonderful and inspiring music teacher and man. While studies, career and family drew me away from Winnipeg a long time ago, Mr. Pierce would be pleased to know that, in my retirement, I have finally been able to re-engage myself in choral music and now sing with the semi-professional Amadeus Choir of Toronto. In this capacity, I think of him often. What a wonderful life and what a wonderful man. Sincere condolences to the family on your loss. God bless. - Posted by: David Barlow (Student and Choir Member - DMCI) on: Feb 06, 2015

  • I am looking at the cover of my "DMCI SINGS" record with a picture of the grand choir and musicians, under the direction of Glen Pierce. We sang the memorable "Selections From Brigadoon", "Rock-A MY SOUL" and many more, at the Winnipeg Auditorium. What an inspiration he was to many of us. Deep condolences to the family. Hildegard Abt (NEE Klein, Student, Choir Member 1958- 1060) - Posted by: Hildegard Abt(nee Klein) (former student) on: Feb 06, 2015

  • My sincere condolences to Daisy and family. As I reflect back, the most precious memories/moments at DMCI were meeting new friends and Glen Pierce . . . brilliant man! Music classes, noon hour practices, choral concerts, trips, etc., were my highlights. I so looked forward to every event. I was inspired by Mr. Pierce. He was so gifted in so many areas ... knowledge, talent and approach to life. He was a very dedicated, approachable, gracious man who made each student feel special. I was blessed to have known him; to be in his choir; and, to be at Gull Lake for his 100th birthday celebration. - Posted by: Patricia Dennis (Former student, friend, (spouse of Ray Bauschke)) on: Feb 03, 2015

  • I have many fond memories of the DMCI choir and A Capella choir, as well as private voice lessons with this absolute wonder of a man. He not only taught us a never-ending love of music of all genres, but took a personal interest in the ups and downs of our lives. He was an invaluable support to me when my parents separated and gave me excellent advice then and on other occasions. I think of him often. God bless him and his family. - Posted by: Torry Hyatt (nee Pocknell) (former student) on: Feb 01, 2015

  • Mr. Pierce was responsible for my love of music and singing. I have wonderful memories of representing Canada on the first trip to Wales (1957) and the Schola Cantorum when we sang with the Winnipeg Symphony in 1958. Mr. Pierce was very generous with his time and often had some of us over to his home for voice lessons. I was privileged to have had a continuing friendship with him long, long after graduation. I flew up from Chicago for his 90th birthday and I was privileged to be in the choir that sang at his party. He remembered me and my name after all those years. I have great respect for both Mr. & Mrs. Pierce. My sympathy to Daisy and the family. - Posted by: Marilyn Breden (née Gilbert) Northbrook, IL (DMCI choir member 1953-1957/student) on: Feb 01, 2015

  • A lifetime of memories of Mr. Pierce, really. I was among those fortunate enough to travel on the first trip to the Eisteddfod, and was one of a small group that met with and honored this wonderful man only a couple of years ago. A blessing to have known Mr. Pierce and beautiful Daisy. Most astounding to me (especially as I am now a 'senior' myself) was that throughout the years, whenever we met, he immediately greeted me by name! Even 2 years ago. Prayers of gratefulness as well as comfort for his family. - Posted by: Tish Murphy (choir member, late 1950's) on: Feb 01, 2015

  • I was sorry to read of Mr. Pierce's death. He lived and long and wonderful life and was an inspiration to many of us. I was fortunate to be a member of the choir that travelled to Wales in 1957 and it was an experience I never forgot. I especially remember the choir practicing in the baggage car on the train going to Montreal before we caught our plane to London. Mr. Pierce and his wife were so wonderful and patient with all of us. Rest in peace. - Posted by: Barbara Nichols (nee Smith) (Student) on: Jan 31, 2015

  • My condolences to Daisy and the whole family. My best memories of DMCI were during my time in the choir. He was a great choir master and brought out the best in us all. He will be greatly missed. - Posted by: Arthur Shibuya (DMCI and Schola Cantorum choir member) on: Jan 31, 2015

  • As so many former students and choir members have remarked, I, too, look fondly back on my years in the DMCI choir under Glen Pierce's direction. It seemed he could get a few notes out of anyone (including me)! I looked forward to choir practices and our annual performance at the Music Festival, but the highlight for me as a choir member was a wonderful trip to Wales in 1961 to a world-wide music festival where I believe we won a third place prize. My condolence to Daisy and all Mr. Pierce's family on the passing of a very wonderful man. - Posted by: Pat Smith (nee Gair) (Student at DMCI 1959-1962) on: Jan 31, 2015

  • Our condolences to the family. Grandpa Pierce was a very talented and wonderful man. I loved listening to him play the piano at church. When he played he brought that piano to life. Take care - Posted by: The Malec () on: Jan 31, 2015

  • My condolences to Daisy and the rest of the family on Glen's passing. I knew of Glen and Daisy for many years as my grandparents are long-time members of Bethesda and my mom grew up there. I was privileged to get to know them better when I took singing lessons from Glen in the early 90's. It was not just a lesson but a visit as Daisy always insisted I stay for soup and other delectables following my lesson. I will always fondly remember the "rock of ages" that Glen used as a tool in his lessons. Truly unique and effective! He lived a great life. Well done good and faithful servant.LATPBJ - Posted by: Melissa (Lee) Wall (former voice student) on: Jan 31, 2015

  • Our sincere condolences to Daisy and family. Mr Pierce inspired so many of us to learn and appreciate choral music in school and throughout our lives. As a result of his influence, both our lives have been enriched by 35 years of singing in the Wpg Barbershop Harmony Society and Sweet Adelines choruses. We have made a donation to Sing Canada Harmony in memory of Mr. Pierce, so someone will sing tomorrow. - Posted by: Gordon & Paula (Dyer) Billows (DMCI choir members ) on: Jan 31, 2015

  • Mr. Pierce introduced many of us to music. Some of us never knew how wonderful it could be to sing, to take part in the choir and operettas. Sincere condolences to the family. A great, but humble man with gifts he shared throughout his long life, and appreciated I am sure by hundreds of former students world wide. - Posted by: Judith Hodgson (Moore) (Former DMCI choir member) on: Jan 31, 2015

  • We met Mr. Pierce at his 90th birthday party and had followed his teachings in music and healthy eating ever since. His passion for music and life is inspirational. We will cherish his memory and strive to live up to his expectations. Our deepest sympathy and regards to dear Daisy and family. - Posted by: Agnes and Stephen Leung (Music students (vocal)) on: Jan 31, 2015

  • I always look back fondly at my years at Daniel, and the choir was a huge part of my enjoyment of those years. Not only was Mr. Pierce a wonderful conductor, firm but kind, and able to get the best out of the choir members, but he made each one feel special. - Posted by: Joyce (Bonney) Goerz (former student 1960-1963) on: Jan 31, 2015

  • What a wonderful friend Glen was to our family. We will always remember him as he marveled over the veggies that were picked for them. He had a heart of gold. To see him running out to the field at the age of 97 or 98 so he could see Alvin; wow that vision will always stay with me [Elaine]. What a privilege to know such a great man. God bless you Daisy and family our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love to our special friend Daisy. - Posted by: Alvin and Elaine Bauschke (Family Friend) on: Jan 30, 2015

  • I only met Mr. Pierce twice. First time was auditioning for the DMCI choir in 1957 when he told me that my voice was changing and to come back the following year. I didn't and have regretted it ever since. The second time was last November when my Mother-in-law pointed him out to me and I introduced myself. I told my story and we further reminisced on the 57-60 years at Daniel Mac and the choir. I told him of my regret and he remarked that that was one of the finest choirs he ever had. He was just so gracious, both he and his wife Daisy! Although I didn't get to know him more in high school, I did get to know the kind of man and teacher he was. Whenever his name came up at school, it was always in the most glowing terms. I am sure that those who knew you Mr. Pierce better than I will truly miss you in every sense of the word. - Posted by: Ed Klemm (Student???) on: Jan 30, 2015

  • Dear Daisy, Children and extended Family, It is with sadness that I heard of the passing of my special friend, Glen Pierce, who passed away this week. Mr. Pierce was a wonderful role model, a teacher, conductor, mentor and friend. I was inspired by his positive outlook, his wisdom and his encouragement. I had the privilege to have known him and been in contact with him for over 55 years. Under his tutelage, he shaped my understanding and love for music, conducting, interpretation and tone-production – “dark tone, please!” His guidance became the most significant music impact on my life. Mr. Pierce shared himself by demonstrating his faith in God, life wisdom (“eat the right food!”) and building long-term friendships. He was there for others. He never made himself the focal point in a conversation. He was and is a great inspiration as a person, musician and Christian. We will miss him. Trudy and I would like to express our sincere sympathy to Daisy, the children and the extended family. May God’s comfort and peace surround you in the days and months to come. Horst Laser, Calgary, former student - Posted by: Horst Laser (student) on: Jan 30, 2015

  • Glen surprised me back in the 1960s by inviting me to accept a teaching position in WSD1. He started an instrumental program in the River Heights Junior High and provided all the musical instruments for the students. This instrumental program changed my career for the next 30 years. I thank Glen for his vision and dedication as music director, conductor and supervisor. - Posted by: John C. Klassen (Instrumental music teacher when Glen Pierce was Music Supervisor for WSD 1) on: Jan 30, 2015

  • What a privilege to have been in the Kelvin High School 100th Anniversary Reunion Choir with Glen Pierce. I had the greatest of respect for him and knew he had touched many lives with his wonderful legacy of music. My condolences, Garven and family. - Posted by: Diana Halter (family friend) on: Jan 30, 2015

  • Sincere condolences Daisy, Maureen and the rest of the family. Glen lived a long life and seemed virtually indestructable! I have so many fond memories of him from DMCI choir (for me gaining a life long love of singing in choirs), from church, etc. Going to Wales in 1965 was a highlight in my life. I was so glad to be able to talk with him at the mini Wales reunion. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. - Posted by: Linda (Liggett) Enns (Friend and former student) on: Jan 30, 2015

  • The ever humble Mr. Pierce was special with respect to his talent, ability and accomplishments. Many people in his choirs were also gifted and achieved much in their lives — some were even famous. However, ego was never a focus at any of his practices. He’d often start by saying: “Settle down everyone, we have several songs to learn in a short time, here’s your first note.” I was lucky to have spoken with him several times at his home and cottage. He always looked you in the eyes and his just sparkled. I loved that guy and will have very fond memories. Alan Skrepnek, Class of ’68. - Posted by: Alan Skrepnek (Humble Choir Member) on: Jan 30, 2015

  • Mr Pierce was the best choir director I ever knew. He actually picked me for the choir when I thought I couldn't sing. He had such faith in all his students. He always used kindness and humour to get the best from his students. DMCI choirs won many competitions in the 60s. - Posted by: cuttingt@mts.net (Student, choir member) on: Jan 30, 2015

  • My condolences to Stew and his family on the loss of a much loved and inspirational father. - Posted by: Al Beck (Co-worker with son Stewart) on: Jan 30, 2015

  • WE ARE IN THAILAND RIGHT NOW...AND I HAVE JUST LEARNED ABOUT DEAR MR PIERCE'S PASSING...HE WAS SUCH A WONDERFUL MAN WHO GAVE US ALL...SO MUCH INSPIRATION ...AND THANKS TO HIM...WE HAVE WONDERFUL DMCI CHOIR MEMORIES....WE WILL NEVER FORGET HIM...OUR SINCERE THOUGHTS GO TO DAISY AND GARVEN AND ALL THE PIERCE FAMILY...CONNIE AND DOUGALL MCCORMICK - Posted by: CONNIE SKREPNEK MCCORMICK (CHOIR MEMBER AND GULL LAKE NEIGHBOUR) on: Jan 29, 2015

  • I have been honoured to have known Glen for over 65 years, as his student in high school choirs, operettas, Music Festivals, his Schola Cantorum, and as a student of voice after high school. He always was a good friend to me and my family, and an inspiration to all around him. He was a great musician and the best choir conductor. I offer my condolences to Daisy and the rest of the family. - Posted by: Bert Tisher (Student) on: Jan 29, 2015

  • My sincere sympathy to Daisy and the family. I have such fond memories of my musical years as one of his students. The fun we had practising our parts for the operettas at his home. His choirs were outstanding and such a privilege to have had the opportunity to have been a member. Betty Faires - Posted by: Betty Faires. (Music student) on: Jan 29, 2015

  • Glen has been an inspiration to me for the past 50 years, since I first joined the DMCI choir. When I last asked him about the secret to his health and longevity, he said "Well, I've long been a student of physical culture." To me, he was not only a good student but a wonderful teacher. When I asked him about how he went about eating the raw food that he recommended, he said "I only manage about 40% (raw). That's about as much as my family will tolerate". He was always so mild mannered, modest and gentle that I never questioned his sincerity. Perhaps that was his secret. To this day I follow his teachings and hear the music of our choir; "truth is marching, truth, is marching....." - Posted by: Danny Card (Student) on: Jan 28, 2015

  • Mr. Pierce was one of the finest men I have ever known. He was a brilliant choir conductor and I am so proud to have been a member of one of his choirs which were so much fun and which he encouraged us to perform to excellence. So sad to hear that he is no longer with us. - Posted by: Janice MacQuarrie (nee Bonney) (choir member at Daniel Mac) on: Jan 28, 2015

  • Mr Pierce was the best choir director and he took us through several festival wins back in the years between 1963 and 1965 at DMCI. He was very kind and had a good sense of humour even though he took his job very seriously. Seems he had a good long life. Good on you sir. - Posted by: Lorraine Chay (Student - Choir Member) on: Jan 28, 2015

  • Our thoughts and prayers to the family. - Posted by: Don MacKenzie (My singing teacher at DMCI) on: Jan 28, 2015

  • My condolences to the family. Glen was such an inspiration to us. He once brought us a print out to a long and healthy life. 2 pages of food for the body and mind. He lived by example and will ever be remembered fondly. His heart was full of love and music and his mind full of God. I am so sorry he is gone but the thought of him shaking hands with Al makes me smile. I love you all!! - Posted by: Betty Fiola (Friend) on: Jan 28, 2015

❮ Go Back to Listings