SALEM- John J. Pickett, 67, of Salem, died Friday, June 23, 2005 at his home following a short illness.
Born in Salem, he was the son of Catherine J. “Kay” (Pszenny) Pickett of Salem and the late Philip P. Pickett.
Mr. Pickett was a Vietnam era veteran, served with the United States Army and attained the rank of Specialist 5th Class.
He was employed as a painter at Salem State College for over 30 years.
He was a Past Noble Grand and current Secretary of the IOOF, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Fraternity Lodge #118, Salem.
John was involved in the creation of a wheelchair basketball team in Beverly, and was an organizer of a special needs baseball team in the Salem Little League. This past winter, in a ceremony hosted by the Salem Chamber of Commerce, he was recognized for his volunteer efforts to the City of Salem with an award presented to him by Mayor Stanley Usovicz.
In addition to his mother, he is survived by a step-son, Ronnie and his wife Doris Walsh of Salem, a step-daughter, Donna Hudon, several step-grandchildren, including, Christopher Hudon of Salem, whom he looked upon as his grandson, one brother, Peter Pickett and Muriel Snow of Salem, three sisters, Mary Janard, Elizabeth and her husband Thomas McKinnon all of Salem, Felicity “Phyllis” Pickett of Rowe and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was the brother of the late Francis Pickett and Eugene Pickett.
His funeral service will be Monday, June 27, 2005 at 9 am from the Full-Spychalski Funeral Home, 84 Washington Square East, by Salem Common, Salem, followed by a funeral Mass at 10 am at St. James Church, Salem. Visiting hours are Sunday, 3 to 7 pm. Relatives and friends respectfully invited. Burial is in Greenlawn Cemetery, Salem. For on line guestbook and directions, visit www.SalemFuneral.com.