BOARDMAN — Donald Joseph Piersant, 94, passed away peacefully at his home on January 9, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, service, and the simple joy of a shared meal.

Born in Youngstown on June 1, 1931, to John and Josephine (Magdalena) Piersant, Donald grew up with a keen eye for detail and a curious mind. After graduating from Rayen High School, he proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy. As a Naval Photographer's Mate, he captured the world through a lens, a skill that earned him the National Defense Service Award and sparked a lifelong passion for photography and the latest gadgets.

Donald was a man who built things to last. As the owner of Piersant Improvement in Boardman, he put his heart into his craft and his community. He found his peace in the quiet of the outdoors, often with a fishing pole in hand, patient and content.

But Donald's true masterpiece was his family. He was the anchor of the traditions that defined their lives. Whether it was the steady rhythm of Friday night Wedgwood pizza, the steam rising off a Sunday bowl of spaghetti, or the delicate scent of anise as he made holiday pizzelles, Donald was happiest when his table was full. He didn't just provide for his family; he created the "home" they will carry with them forever.

He is reunited in peace with his parents; his brothers, Carl and Peter; and his beloved son, John Nicholas Piersant, who passed in 2016.

His memory will be cherished and kept alive by his children, Don Richard (Stacy) Piersant and Julie Ann Piersant; and the lights of his life, his grandchildren, Hailey Nichole and Preston Nicholas Piersant. The family is forever grateful to Don's private caregivers, Angie, Wallette, and Jen, whose tender care and loving hearts provided comfort, companionship and dignity. Their kindness will always be remembered.

Donald taught those who loved him that life's greatest rewards aren't found in grand gestures, but in the reliability of a Sunday dinner and the love baked into a holiday cookie. He will be deeply missed, but every time a camera clicks or a pizza box is opened on a Friday night, his spirit will be there.

The Table He Built

A camera lens to catch the light, A steady hand, a sharp insight. From Navy blue to Boardman's soil, He lived a life of honest toil. With gadgets spread across the desk, He sought the new, the bright, the best, But found his peace in simpler things— The quiet joy that family brings.

He knew the secret to a life well-blessed: That Friday nights are always best When Wedgwood steam fills up the room, And laughter chases away the gloom. Through Sunday sauce and holiday cheer, He kept his loved ones always near, With pizzelles pressed by patient hands— The finest gift in all the lands.

He's fishing now on a mirror lake, Beyond the grief and the hearts that ache. Joined by those who went before, Waiting on a distant shore. So when the Sunday table's spread, And grace is whispered, gently said, Look to the chair, for he is there— In every smile and every prayer.