Eighty-seven descendants of Tom and Lena Pier (Kingsburg residents 1914-1933, Avon residents 1933-1968) gathered in Avon for a reunion of their extended families. The weekend began with a dinner held at Pour Corner, hosted by the Community Bank. A gorgeous South Dakota evening encouraged games and shenanigans by the cousins who were quickly reacquainted.

Travelers came by plane, car, and RV from New York, Colorado, Washington, Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Wisconsin, California, Georgia, Massachusetts and Michigan.

Rick Pier led a tour and gave a history of the Community Bank, then led the caravan of cars to see what remains of the Kingsburg Bank. Included in the drive around Avon were the original homes of Tom and Lena, Ralph and Mae, Dick and Helen, and Bill and Sandy Pier. Many attending the reunion had spent memorable summers in these homes visiting their grandparents.

Swimming at the pool, a golf scramble, and a special luncheon for the oldest generation were popular mixers. Saturday evening brought everyone together for a delicious dinner at the fire hall, catered by Country Style Catering. Many items of memorabilia were shared along with a Pier Family History presentation by Suzanne Parker Werner. Attendees submitted their family information to continue the tradition of keeping Tom and Lena’s lineage current.

A 21-voice choir, led by Renee Pier McClendon, was a special feature during the Sunday service at the First Presbyterian Church. Dr. Mac Pier gave an inspiring Father’s Day message about the Prodigal Son. A picnic in the City Park on this beautiful summer day was a perfect ending to the reunion.

Pictured are families of grandchildren of Dick/Helen Pier, Jackie Pier/RJ Parker, Bill/Sandy Pier, and Kristie Borin/Dale Zimmerman. Also pictured are Ann Pier and Lynn Pier/Tom Fitzgerald. The extended Pier Family appreciates the merchants and residents of Avon for their hospitality.