Richard "Rick" Pickar

richard
Richard "Rick" Pickar age 65 of Lawler, IA, died Tuesday, November 28, 2023, at MercyOne New Hampton Medical Center. Friends may greet the family from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. Monday, December 4, 2023, at Hugeback - Johnson Funeral Home & Crematory in New Hampton. Richard "Rick" Joseph Pickar, a cherished husband, beloved father, and treasured member of the Lawler community, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2023, in the same town where his life's journey began. Born on May 27, 1958, to James and Rosalie (Kriener) Pickar, Rick's warmth and vivacity were evident from his early years in New Hampton, Iowa. Rick's commitment to education and hard work was reflected in his formative years at New Hampton Schools, from which he graduated in 1976. Even as a young man, his dedication was clear as he began his career at B & J Construction, starting humbly by cleaning floors and running errands. However, it was not just his professional life that flourished in his hometown; it was also where he met the love of his life, Lois King while she was a waitress at a local truck stop, which led them to the altar on September 29, 1979, at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel in Lawler. Together, they welcomed two children, Dawn and Chad, who were the pride and joy of Rick's life, and who always knew they had the best dad anyone could wish for. Professionally, Rick's journey continued at Mitko, where he became a cornerstone of the company for 47 years. His innate ability to fix nearly anything, combined with a willingness to tackle problems he had never encountered before, made him the go-to person for any and all questions. His practical knowledge gained through tireless experience and the occasional bout of trial and error became legendary. Rick's colleagues knew him as a man who was not only capable but also deeply committed to his work and to the company that he considered a second home. Beyond his work and family, Rick had passions that filled his life with joy and adventure. He was an avid outdoorsman, relishing in the tranquility of fishing and the thrill of deer hunting, always processing his game and livestock with skill and care at home. He spent countless weekends relaxing at his camper at Roberts Lake Resort in Faribault, Minnesota Plus an annual Canada fishing trip, where he could unwind and share his love for the great outdoors with friends and family. It didn’t matter where or when it was always the time to fish. Rick also attended the Turkey and Pheasants Forever banquets usually coming home with a new print or gun. Those who knew Rick would invariably describe him as kind, funny, and friendly. His sense of humor was a beacon of light, and his kindness touched the hearts of many. His friendly demeanor made him a beloved figure not only within his family but throughout the entire community. Rick's legacy is one of laughter, generosity, and an unwavering spirit of camaraderie. Rick's life was a testament to the values he held dear: hard work, devotion to family, and the joy of simple pleasures. His presence was a gift to all who knew him, and his memory will continue to inspire and comfort his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with him. Rick is survived by his devoted wife of 44 years Lois of Lawler, his loving children Dawn(CJ) Philo of New Hampton, Chad(Carissa) of Lawler; his mother Rosalie Pickar of New Hampton; grandchildren Taylor (Charles) Durnan of New Hampton, Alex Philo of New Prague, MN, Kiara Philo of Walker, MN, Cale Pickar of Lawler, Chloe Pickar of Lawler; sisters, Cindy (Tom) Zeien of New Hampton, Janet(Tony) Schwickerath New Hampton; brother-in-law, Dale (Cathy) King of Lawler; sister-in-law, Judy Lensing of Calmar; many nieces and nephews, close friend Ron (Goudy) Leibold and a community that will miss his kind soul and infectious smile. He was preceded in death by his father, James Pickar; Father and Mother-in-law Hugh and Marvelene King; and brothers-in-law, Tony Lensing and Alan King.

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  1. My deepest condolences to Rick’s family. I will always remember Rick as always kind and willing to help. We had some fun chats. Sorry to see him go. 🙏🙏🙏

  2. Lois and family, you have my deepest sympathies. Rick was such a great person and a friend to many. He will be missed.

  3. Lois and family: We are so very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

  4. So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers to the Pickar family. You’ve had a tough year and have been thinking of you often Lois. Hugs to you!❤

  5. So sorry to hear this. Our deepest sympathies to the family. Prayers for the for all of you.🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

  6. So sorry to hear this. I only knew Rick from being a Casey’s customer, such a nice man always with a smile.

  7. Cindy – I’m so sorry for the loss of your brother Rick. My deepest sympathy to you, your family and the entire Pickar family.

  8. Our Deepest Sympathy to Lois and all the Pickars and King families, Rick was a nice guy and great neighbor. Prayers and Thoughts are with you during this difficult time of loss!
    James and Lyn Bailey

  9. Sending condolences and prayers for comfort to the Pickar family. Rest in peace, cousin Rick.
    Kevin and Lisa Brandt

  10. My deepest sympathy to Rosie, Cindy, Janet and the entire Pickar family and to Lois and the entire King family. Prayers and hugs!

  11. Rick was a great guy….always friendly with a smile. He will be missed by many. Rest in peace Rick. Our sincere condolences to his family.
    Jack and Dianne

  12. Lois and Family so very sorry to hear of the passing of Rick. He will be missed by all whose lives have been touch by his kind and gentle being. He has left this world a better place for all he has done for others. Prayers fro comfort and peace

  13. Our sympathy to Rosie and Rick’s family for your loss! To lose a loved one is hard especially at holiday time!


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