James Dwight Pickens, 74, of Apple Valley MN, passed away on June 3rd surrounded by family and friends.

Jim was born on September 1st, 1949, the third son of Robert and Jepsy Pickens in Piqua, Ohio. After his fathers death, his mother remarried and their family expanded to 7 boys. He joined the United States Marine Corps in 1968 and bravely served two tours in Vietnam. His dedication led him to continue his service in the Marine Corps Reserves until 1990 when he joined the Army National Guard Reserves where he served until he retired from the service.

Jim was a devoted member of Celebration Church. He found solace and community in his faith throughout his life.

A man of many passions, Jim enjoyed fishing, camping and horseback riding with his wife Sue on weekends in Red Wing, spending time at his cabin, fixing up old cars, building model cars, doing paint by numbers, being a member of The Old West Society of Minnesota, dressing up as Santa Claus and appearing at our local Starbucks so kids could get their picture taken while on his lap. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was known for making people laugh, telling stories and jokes, and striking up conversations with anyone. His vibrant personality will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife Susan Pickens, his daughter Carrie Pickens(John Broms), his son Trent Pickens, daughter in-law Jennifer Pickens, his step children, Danielle Freudenthal(Joe Topinka), Justin Schweich(Mary), Jacob Schweich, Jared Schweich(Lexi), Dominic Wolf, Evan Wolf(Tess), and cherished grandchildren, Jacqueline, Kaitlyn, Zachary, Ashlyn, Bennett, Abigail and Austin, Axel, Elsa, Geneva, Mellisa, Hayley, Reagan, Sophia, Caleb, 2 great grandchildren, Arabella and Augustine, as well as 2 brothers in Ohio, Dick Daily(Cindy) and Tom Daily(Marylou) along with several nephews and nieces .

Jim was preceded in death by the recent passing of his son Nathan Pickens, his granddaughter Brooklyn Pickens, his father Robert Pickens, his mother Jepsy Daily, and brothers Robert Pickens, Harry Pickens, Jeff Daily and Ernie Daily.

A service to celebrate Jim’s life will be held at Celebration Church ,16655 Kenyon Ave. So. in Lakeville, MN on Tuesday, July 9th. Visitation will be from 9:30-11, followed by a service with military honors at 11, with lunch to follow. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Celebration Youth to help kids go to camp.

Rest in peace Jim, your legacy of laughter, love and service will forever be remembered.

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