Donald R. Pickett

Donald R. Pickett passed away at home on Feb. 20, 2022 at the age

of 82.

Don enlisted in the Air Force right out of High School and was an instructor in Complete Aircraft Mechanics. During his enlistment he also served time in Laos from 1961-1962. After completing his 4 years he then enlisted in the Coast Guard.

During his time in the Coast Guard, he received various accomplishment awards including several Bronze Stars, The National Defense Medal, and also received the Air Medal, which is awarded for single acts of heroism while participating in aerial flight. He rescued 14 people on Lake Erie after a vessel had capsized during his time with Search and Rescue. He enjoyed his time in the service and was proud to have served his country. He retired after 20 years and then worked for the Dept. of Defense until full retirement.

He was a hero to us and was a loving and caring father. He loved coming to see his daughters and grandchildren and great-grandchildren in Michigan. He would never get on a plane, always enjoyed his cross-country drive so he could stop and see the sights. He loved to travel and would do so whenever he could.

He enjoyed spending time with friends at the VFW, American Legion and the Elks Lodge. He was Post Commander for the VFW for several years. His days were pretty much planned out daily heading out to breakfast, dinner or bingo during the week. He liked to say: "I don't let any grass grow under my tires!" He was also an avid fisherman in his prime and enjoyed just taking the boat out when he could.

Member of the Honor Guard and was proud to be a part of this.

We considered him the best "Tour Guide" of this area; he loved to talk about the area and show his daughters and friends all the best sights. By the time he was done you knew the best places for dinner, where to get the best Margarita, best piece of pie, etc.

Survived by: Michelle & Kerry Glaesmer, Amy and Ben Griffin; grandchildren: Janelle Voisin (Eric), Michael Glaesmer (Amanda), Jason Viruegas (Rebecca), Jordan Slade, Tiffany Slade; and great-grandchildren: Payton & Declan (Janelle), Scarlett (Michael), Benjamin (Tiffany), Isabell, Olivia, Cali, and Alivia (Jason). Preceded in Death: Jean Pickett (Wife), Parents: Fred and Laura Pickett.

Viewing will be at Mehl's Colonial Chapel 222 E. Lake Avenue in Watsonville, on March 17, 2022, from 1-3pm. Graveside service will be at the California Central Coast Veterans Cemetery 2900 Parker Flats Cut Off Road in Seaside, on March 18, 2022 at 11am.

Published in The Pajaronian · March 3, 2022