Dale Picker, 93

William Dale Picker, age 93, of LaGrange and formerly of Sturgis, died Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at The Waters of LaGrange.

He was born on February 25, 1930, in Sturgis to Paul F. and Gladys M. (Letsom) Picker.

Dale worked as an engineer at Grumman-Olson in Sturgis. While working for Grumman-Olson he was involved with designing and winning the contract for the US Mail trucks, aka LLV’s.

He was a U.S. Air Force veteran and served his country from September 1951 to September 1955 during the Korean War. He was a lifetime member of the LaGrange American Legion Post #215. He also spent 20 years as a Sturgis Volunteer Fireman.

In his younger years, Dale spent time playing the drums in the band, Johnny Hayes and The Pastels. He enjoyed bowling and had the opportunity to play against professional bowlers of his time. Golf was another passion of Dales, and in retirement he played frequently. He even took the time to make his own clubs.

Surviving Dale is his daughter, Debbie (Herb) Williams of White Pigeon; a stepdaughter, Patti Ann (Steve) Stark of Sturgis; Anne (Joe) Billman of LaGrange; Paula (Tim) Balk of Elkhart; seven grandchildren and several great grandchildren.

Proceeding Dale in death were his parents; the love of his life, Joan Brady; a brother, Don Picker; and stepchildren, Michael Speicher and Chuck Speicher.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, December 6, 2023, at the Frurip-May Funeral Home, 309 West Michigan St., LaGrange, IN 46761, the Rev. Thurston Jones will officiate the services.

Burial will take place in Greenwood Cemetery, LaGrange, with Military Rites being provided by the LaGrange American Legion Post #215.

 

A visitation will be held on Wednesday at the funeral home from 12 p.m. until service time.

 

Memorial contributions may be given in Dale’s memory to the LaGrange American Legion Post #215.