Gary L. Pickett, 68, of Rockford, Ill., passed away on Monday, Sept. 4, 2017. Gary was born in Janesville, Wis., on June 18, 1949; son of Doyle and Evelyn (Turner) Pickett. Gary married the love of his life, Norberta (Hernandez) Pickett in Rockford on Nov. 16, 1968, and for 49 years they lovingly raised and took care of their family. Gary proudly served his country in the United States Army in 82nd Airborne Unit. He started his life from humble beginnings and because of his hard work, perseverance, and drive for his family, Gary was able to accomplish a good life for his loved ones. The time he spent with his family was most important to Gary, and they will forever remember his love and dedication to them. Gary was a good and loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Norberta Pickett; children, Tom (Rosa Alvarado) Wing, Mark (Danielle) Pickett, Kathy (Mario) Calderon; grandchildren, Tristana (Ross) Tripoli, Alyssa Wing, Ashley (fiancé, Seth Swineheart) Pickett, Mark Pickett II, Brianna (Curtis) Pickett, Albert Calderon, Rosemary Calderon, Alex Calderon, Jonathan Calderon, and Isabella Calderon; great-granddaughter, Sophia Gabriella Pickett; siblings, Earl (Letti) Pickett, Cheryl (Jay) Henderson, Rick (Dolly) Pickett; special cousins, Richard, Mike, Dave, Kevin, and Wayne Bauer; nieces and nephews, Ricky, Tammy, Kim, Jason, and Kristina.

He is predeceased by his parents, and his son, Fred Pickett in 2015.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 10, 2017; with a visitation starting at 10 a.m. until time of service at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL, 61108, with Reverend Dean Parker officiating. Burial will immediately follow to Scandinavian Cemetery. To share memories and condolences, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.