Pierce M. Hoyt

Pierce M. Hoyt, age 79, passed away suddenly at his home on January 16, 2026.

He was born on December 22, 1946, in Haverhill, Massachusetts, and was raised in Bradford, Massachusetts. Pierce attended the University of New Hampshire, where he earned a degree in Geology and Earth Science. He proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard from 1966 to 1970, distinguishing himself aboard the USCGC Sherman (WHEC-720).

Following his military service, Pierce worked at Palisades Tahoe Ski Resort in California as a professional ski patroller, where he performed search and rescue and avalanche control. In 1977, he moved to Grafton, New York, where he began a lifelong commitment to public service and environmental education.

Pierce became the Director of the Dyken Pond Environmental Education Center in 1977 where he developed the Center into what it is today. He set a priority of providing environmental education to as many youth and families as possible and personally created many of the hiking trails that continue to be enjoyed by the community. His life’s work provided opportunities to countless young people. He was especially proud of founding a Youth Conservation Corps, known as the Rough Riders, a teen program focused on education and community service where he mentored many teens. 

He later served as Deputy Commissioner of the Rensselaer County Youth Department, continuing his legacy of working with youth throughout the County. He served as Grafton Town Justice for two terms, and as a Grafton Town Board member.  For ten years, he worked at Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort as a ski instructor, sharing the joy of skiing with both children and adults.

Pierce was continuously inspired by nature and remained active throughout his life. He loved downhill and cross-country skiing, hiking, sailing, kayaking, canoeing, and simply being in the woods. If you did not know where Pierce was, he was probably walking in the forest, sometimes for hours. He was a keen observer of nature and wildlife and had a deep compassion for all living things.

A mentor to many, Pierce generously shared outdoor experiences, philosophy, and life lessons. His presence was unforgettable, and his energy drew people together. He loved socializing and spending time with friends and family, especially around a campfire or on a long walk. 

Pierce is survived by his wife of 34 years, Lisa Hoyt and was the proud father of three children: Adrienne Hoyt (Preston Hebert, Prineville, Oregon), Connor Hoyt (Grafton, New York), and Bradford Hoyt (Leah Gill, Troy, New York). He is also survived by two beloved grandchildren, Cidd Hebert and Sebastian Hoyt.

Pierce was deeply loved by his family and friends, and his legacy of service, mentorship, and love of the natural world will continue to live on in the many lives he touched.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Wynantskill Funeral Home on Saturday, January 31. Visiting hours will be from 10am -12pm with a service held at 12:00. 

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Friends of Dyken Pond Center, 475 Dyken Pond Road, Cropseyville, NY 12052. 

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