Salem…..

Retired Salem Police Officer, Anthony M. "Tony" Pierro, age 86, of Salem, died Sunday, December 23, in the Kaplan Family Hospice House, Danvers,

Born in Swampscott the son of the late Michael and Theresa (Solomino) Pierro, he was raised and educated in Salem. Following his graduation from Salem High School, Mr. Pierro entered the United States Marine Corps, proudly serving his country during World War II. During his service he was stationed in the Pacific Theater of operation in New Zealand, the British Solomon Island, New Caledonia, and the Marinas and Hawaiian Islands. Corporal Pierro participated in enemy actions in various locations including Bougainville, B, S.I as well as Guam and the Marinas Islands.

Following his discharge he married and became employed by Sunburst Orange Juice and Cushman's Bakery as a driver. He also served as a reserve officer on the Salem Police Department until becoming appointed full time. Officer Pierro was appointed Safety Officer for the Salem Police Department in 1978, a position he held until his retirement in 1983 with 32 years of service.

He loved to play bocce on the weekends with his friends in the North End of Boston. Mr. Pierro also enjoyed going to the horse races in Saratoga Springs, NY and visiting Pompano Beach, FL. Most of all he enjoyed being active with his grandchildren, their activities as well as their sporting events.

Predeceased by his former wife Ruth (Duggan) Pierro Crocker, he is survived by a son Richard Anthony Pierro and his wife Patricia of Essex; three grandchildren who he loved and adored, Lyndsey, Richard, and Corey; a sister Mary Arzigian of Las Vegas, NV and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by two sisters Nancy Colletti and Rose Blanchette.

His funeral will be held on Saturday December 29th at 11:15 A.M. from the Murphy Funeral Home, 85 Federal St,. (cor of North St) Salem to be followed by a funeral Mass at 12 Noon in St. Thomas the Apostle 1 Margin St., Peabody ( on the Salem Peabody line). Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Visiting hours will be Friday from 4 to 8 P.M. Interment will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Salem. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Hospice of the North Shore, 10 Elm St., Danvers, MA 01923. For on line guest book or additional information please visit www.MuurphyFuneralHome.com. or call 978 744 0497.