James “Martin” Martin Peirce

James “Martin” Martin Peirce, age 88, died peacefully at his home in Victor, Montana, on November 5, 2024.

A graveside service and burial was held at the Victor Cemetery, in Victor, Montana, on Saturday, November 16, 2024. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome. com.

Martin was born May 15, 1936, in Kearney to James and Mildred (Peck) Peirce. He was raised in Kearney and graduated from trade school with a Carpentry and Cabinet Making Certification in 1954.

He met Janice Rhodes and they were married on September 26, 1960, in Grand Island.

After marriage they moved to Townsend, Montana, and worked on the Kempton Cattle Ranch in Toston, Montana. In 1964, Martin and Jan moved to Victor, Montana, and worked on the Peirce Cattle Ranch. In 1979, Jan and Martin moved to Florence, Montana, and they both worked for the Florence Christian School. In 1988, they moved back to Victor, Montana, to help take care of the ranch and take care of Martin’s parents. In 1997, Jan and Martin opened Peirce Lock and Safe in Hamilton, Montana.

Martin is survived by his sister, Janice Rathman Powell, of Grand Island; two daughters, Renae (Todd) Rasmussen, and Daile (Jeff) Engle, of Clarkston, Washington; three grandchildren, Eric (Alicia), Aaron (Jacey), and MaKayla Rasmussen; and five plus one on the way great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Mildred Peirce, and his wife, Jan Peirce.