Erich Picking came into the world on March 31, 1954.  His early years were spent in an orphanage in Germany until he was 6 years old when he and his sister (Isabella Picking, deceased) were adopted into the loving home of Robert Picking.  Erich’s life went from lederhosen to life in an apartment on Michigan Avenue in Chicago overnight. His school years were spent at the Latin School of Chicago and later Lake Forest High School. 

In his 20’s he started working for Sears where he formed lifelong friendships with the people he worked with.  He had the privilege of working in the Sear’s Tower, even if it was on a floor that was underground.  Following Sears, Erich took high school kids to Europe to play in soccer cups.  Then he went in a new direction, opening up Cablenet Technologies to meet all your telephone and network cabling needs.  He ultimately found his passion in carpentry, founded Men with Tools, and worked as a carpenter. 

Nothing was more important to Erich than his two children.  Alexandria (Ali) Tasson (married to Jay Tasson) and Derek Picking came into his life in the 1980’s and changed his world.  He never let Ali forget that she was the reason he had to sell his two-seated Datsun 280Z.  Derek and Erich are kindred spirits and bantered with each other in a way that would put a smile on anyone’s face. When Erich’s grandson, Brandon Tasson, came along, a new bond was formed.  Grandpa Erich was always ready to talk sports with Brandon. 

If you needed to find Erich, the most likely places to look were on the golf course, shooting pool, watching his beloved Cubs or da Bears, helping a neighbor, or relaxing in the bathtub.  He loved a good soak!  Taking to the pickleball court?  Watch out! Erich was competitive and held nothing back. 

Erich was a caring man who followed his heart in life.  He liked to go with the flow, which often meant there was an adventure around every corner and the makings of a good story.  He always seemed to be able to find humor in the most challenging situations.   

Erich passed away unexpectedly and peacefully at home on June 21, 2024 in Mesa, AZ.  He will be missed by all who had the privilege to know him. 

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