Obituary: Maritta Pierce
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July 31, 1936 – March 14, 2025
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Maritta Florstedt Pierce, who died peacefully at her home on March 14, 2025, at the age of 88.
Maritta was born on July 31, 1936, in Herne, Westphalia, Germany, to the late Stephan and Auguste Florstedt. Her early childhood was consumed by the fear and peril of World War II, when she and her parents survived multiple bombing raids, starvation and escaped capture by the Russian army.
In 1955, at the age of 19, she immigrated to the United States with her mother, where they were welcomed by extended family in Milwaukee. Maritta’s creative talents as a seamstress earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues and customers in several high end department stores and boutiques.
On June 8, 1958, Maritta married Gordon Pierce in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and together they raised a loving family. Maritta was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, with an unwavering dedication to her family.
Maritta was a long-term member of the Vail community, where she and her family moved to in 1972. She cherished the beauty of the mountains and enjoyed time in her garden, where she found a great sense of peace and connection to the earth.
Maritta also had a deep appreciation for the arts, cooking, baking, reading and listening to classical music. Her love for these interests enriched the lives of those around her. Her warm spirit and sharp sense of humor will be missed very much. She will be remembered for her kindness, creativity, generosity, love of nature and her devotion to those she loved.
Maritta is survived by her former husband, Gordon Pierce (Margaret Shannon), and her children: Andre Pierce (M.J.), Genét Simone (Mary), Juliette Kent (Michael), and Todd Winslow Pierce. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Charlotte Duddington (Matthew) and Meredith Pierce.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Eagle Valley Wild or the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. A private memorial will be held next year, time and place to be determined.
