Frank Matthew Pierce, Jr. 70, of Syracuse, passed away unexpectedly Monday, January 1, 2018.
   Frank was born on November 5, 1947 in Watertown, NY to parents Frank Matthew Pierce and Betty June (Ruttan) Pierce.    He grew up in Dexter, NY and moved with his family to Watertown.  He graduated from Watertown High School in 1965.  
   In June of 1969 he entered active duty into the United States Army and was sent to Bien Hoa Vietnam to fight in the Vietnam War.  He served with the 101st Airborne Division as a paratrooper.  In April of 1965 he was wounded during combat.  While serving in the military he received numerous awards and medals.  His highest honors include the Bronze Star, a Purple Heart, the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry and the Vietnam Civil Action Medal.  After his honorable discharge as a SGT/E-5 in 1975, Frank moved to Syracuse where he became employed with Koerner Ford and Fuccillo Auto Group until his retirement.
   Frank was a Disabled American Veteran who was very proud to have served his country.  He loved gardening and always had the most amazing flower and vegetable gardens.  His love of cats was unwavering.  He was never without a cat and gave several cats loving homes throughout the years.  
   Frank is survived by his mother, Betty Pierce, of Watertown; two brothers James (Penny) Pierce. of Adams,  and John Pierce, of Watertown; nieces, nephews and cousins.  His father, Frank Pierce, and his sister, Sheila Pierce (Montando) Patterson, passed before him.
   There will be no calling hours.  A Funeral with full military honors will be held in the spring.  In lieu of flowers, donations in Frank’s memory can be made to the Disabled American Veterans (www.dav.org) or the Central New York SPCA, 5878 E. Molloy Road, Syracuse, NY 13211.