John Pierpont, 94, of Mercer, has departed earth and set sail for the firmament. Doc was born August 21, 1914 in Ironwood, Mich. to Dr. David Cowee Pierpont and Ana Heller Pierpont and graduated from Luther L. Wright High School there in 1931. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan in June 1936 and graduated from medical school there in 1938. Doc met Helen (Lockwood) in Ann Arbor, Mich., married her on April 29, 1939 and eventually returned to the Upper Peninsula to practice medicine. Doc and Helen's union put into motion a series of procreation that is likely to mark the Midwest and other selected regions for generations to come. The imperfection of birth control and his willingness to shirk common sense in favor of warmth and comfort with his ever-loving wife would spawn eight children: Dr. David B. Pierpont (Heidi) of Bayfield; John Pierpont, Jr. (Deanna) of Mercer; Dr. Gordon L. Pierpont (Mary Ella) of St. Paul; William M. Pierpont (deceased); Martha Pierpont (Dean Gustafson) of Mercer; James O. Pierpont (deceased); Raymond Mark Pierpont (Cathy) of White Pine, Mich.; and Dr. Robert B. Pierpont (Debbie) of Superior, Wis. Doc's efforts have further resulted in the collection of 18 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. After his wife's death in 1994, Doc became reacquainted with Virginia Velin and much enjoyed her companionship until her death in 2004. His proclivity to regenerate was matched in intensity only by his commitment to harvest his fair share of earth's bounty. During his ambulatory years, Doc laid waste to countless ducks, geese and other variety of fowl. Similarly, he showed no quarter to thousands of fresh and saltwater fish. Doc's energy and vast intellectual capacity took him in many directions. He never tired of music, science, gardening, bridge, books and sailing. He captained several sailing vessels that he built or financed, including the Northern Flight, the Siskiwit, Snark and the Chanterelle. In 1969 he teamed with Jack Soetebier and co-founded the Trans-Superior race, the longest fresh-water sailing race in the world. Doc's aura burned brightest when surrounded by family and friends and he generously involved all in his adventures. He was cerebral, charming and witty. His memory was uncommon and the tiniest catalyst would often have him reciting line or verse from passages read decades ago. Doc loved a full sail, piping hot food and his martini promptly at happy hour. He had little tolerance for wet socks, small thinkers or overcooked fish. Doc leaves this world with an abundance of consanguinity to carry on his unique pedigree and he would love knowing that you are scurrying for the dictionary at this very moment. If he were signing off on this note he would likely add, in the Pierpontian vernacular-"LOVE ALL 'ROUND!" At Doc's request, cremation has taken place. Memorial services will be held Wednesday, April 8, at 11 a.m., at the Mercer United Methodist Church in Mercer, with the Rev. Larry Olson and the Rev. Erv Teichmiller co-officiating. Luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall. Relatives and friends may call at the church from 10 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Mercer Public Library, Regional Hospice, N-10561 Grandview Lane, Ironwood, Mich. 49938, or to a charity of one's choice. To view Doc's obituary online, sign the guestbook and express condolences, visit mckevittpatrickfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are with McKevitt-Patrick Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ironwood.