Obituaries

Pierre Patrick Payment, age 54, of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, died on September 24, 2026, in Brimley, Michigan. He was born on March 9, 1972, in Sault Ste. Marie, to James and Lois (Smith) Payment.

Pierre grew up on Sugar Island and later began working on tugboats throughout the Great Lakes, beginning a career that kept him close to the water and the outdoors. Pierre became a proud father to his son, Cameron, and later spent many years traveling throughout the United States with his first significant other, Kelley.

After Kelley’s death in 2019, Pierre met Amy, and the two made their home in Pennsylvania. Following Amy’s passing, Pierre returned to his hometown of Sault Ste. Marie. Although he had officially retired, Pierre was never one to sit still for long. He continued doing what he enjoyed, cutting trees with Top Notch Tree Service and staying active.

Pierre was a proud member of the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians.

Pierre found happiness in the simple things in life, especially camping and spending time outdoors. He was a strong, determined man who lived life on his own terms and was always ready for the next adventure. When he couldn’t be outside, he enjoyed settling in to watch his favorite movie, Lonesome Dove.

Pierre is survived by his son, Cameron Waite of Sault Ste. Marie; mother, Lois Payment; brothers, Ed Payment of Hessel, Michigan, and Steven Payment of Sugar Island, Michigan; sisters, Krista Jones, Sandra St. Onge, and Andrea Payment, all of Sugar Island; the mother of his son, Aneen Stallman; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Pierre also leaves behind his beloved dog Smokey.

Pierre was preceded in death by his father, James Payment; sister, Karen Payment; brother Nathan “Toddy” Payment; sisters-in-law, Myrl and Deb Payment; and significant others, Amy Swanderski and Kelly Shahata

Memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at St. Mary's Church, 377 Maple St., Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783. The Memorial Mass will begin at 11:30AM with luncheon to follow at the Sugar Island Community Center, 6401 E 1 ½ Mile Rd, Sugar Island, MI.

Family Life Funeral Homes – Sault Ste. Marie assisted the family with arrangements.

Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.