David Charles Pierce, 68, of Cocoa Beach, Fla., died peacefully January 1, after a brave battle with cancer. Born in Eastbourne, England, he was the son of the late Jean and Alfred Pierce.

His sister Sheila Stickles, and husband Devry, of Newtown; brother Alan Pierce, and wife Regina, of Milford; and two daughters, Toni Frizinia of Shelton and Rachel Pierce of Milford; his beloved grandsons, Michael and Raymond Frizinia of Shelton; and several nieces and nephews survive Mr Pierce. His wife, Judith Pierce, predeceased him.

He came to the United States with his family when he was 7 years old. He graduated from Stratford High School in 1965, and proudly served the US Air Force during the Vietnam War as a sergeant.

He was always reading or listening to music, and he loved the New York Yankees.

Services will be private.

Family and old friends are asked to read a book or listen to music to celebrate Mr Pierce’s life.