David L. Pickering, age 89, went to be with his Lord and Savior and to reunite with his wife, Delores, on July 16, 2014. David passed away at Porter Hills Retirement Community where he will be missed by many friends. Dave grew up during the great depression in Black Earth, WI. Following his high school graduation, he enlisted in the United States Navy where he rose to the officer rank of Ensign. He was preparing for the invasion of Japan when President Truman ordered the atomic bomb attacks on Japan that ended the war. Dave credits this decision with saving his life and that of countless other American military personnel. He was in Tokyo Harbor for the Japanese surrender and he was proud to have served his country. After the war, Dave married the love of his life, Delores Kohr, and they were married for 64 years. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a degree in Electrical Engineering. David and Delores spent most of their adult life in the Grand Rapids area. Through the years, Dave worked for Clement Electric, General Electric, Menasha Corporation and Williams and Works among others. He was president of the Grand Rapids Engineers Club in 1995-1996. Preceding him in death was his beloved wife, Delores, whom he sorely missed; his brother, C.A. Pickering; his sister, Meryl Stone and his parents, Alice and Arthur Pickering. A grandson, Scotty Pickering also preceded him in death. Dave is survived by his son, John D. Pickering and his wife, Susan Luttmann of Harbor Springs and son, David S. Pickering and his wife, Kathy of Waterford. Surviving grandchildren include Jennifer Pickering, Jodie Pickering, John A. Pickering and Lauren Rappaport. In a private ceremony, Dave will be laid to rest alongside his beloved wife in Ada Cemetery. The family will greet friends on August 2, 2014 beginning at 9:30 AM at The Meeting House at Porter Hills Retirement Community (west entrance), 3600 E. Fulton Street, Grand Rapids, MI 49546. A memorial service will follow at 11 AM officiated by Rev. Todd Petty from Park Congregational Church. Memorial contributions may be made to Park Congregational Church, the Southeast branch of the Grand Rapids YMCA or Porter Hills. Arrangements are being provided by: Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home
Published in Grand Rapids Press from Jul. 19 to Jul. 27, 2014.