Daniel Howard Pearce

Daniel Pearce, age 73, sadly and unexpectedly left our world on Sept 17, 2024, after a life richly lived in service and kindness.  Born in Camden NJ January 10, 1951, he was predeceased by his parents Howard and Betty, and is survived by his husband Chuck Osborne, his sister and brother-in-law Sharon and Frank Fritz of Palm Bay FL, nephews Michael (Jessica) Smith and David Smith of New Jersey; step nephew Frank (Maggie) Fritz of Pennsylvania; grand nephews and nieces Kristian, Connor, Rylee, Olivia, Emily and Taylor.  After successfully completing training at Great Lakes Naval Center, Daniel served during the Vietnam War. After service, he travelled and found his specialty in the hospitality industry working in Atlantic City and Philadelphia. However, due to health issues he decided to live in Florida where his attention turned to community advocacy. He engaged in helping others find meaning and clarity in their lives and he was a pioneer in the history of the Brevard County LGBTQ+ as well as a longtime volunteer. He helped create safe and welcoming spaces and was Past President of the Board of Directors of Project Response. His willingness to engage in tough situations and provide care and hope for others was always foremost for Daniel and he earned much gratitude from the nurses and doctors that he worked with.  Daniel requested cremation and we will honor his wish but because he was in a nursing home for the last few months there will be a short viewing for friends and family to say goodbye at the Ammen Funeral Home, Thursday Sept 26, 2024, from 4-6 pm. The funeral home is located at 1001 Hickory St. Melbourne (Hickory and NASA Blvd). The family would sincerely appreciate that in lieu of flowers, that you please make a contribution in Daniel's name to a charity or organization, such as Project Response, 378 Babcock St, Melbourne, Fl that you believe would be his final wish. He was a beacon of love, light and hope in our community touching many lives and we pray this man of service now rests in peace.