Neal Gessel Pickett

Neal Gessel Pickett

September 17, 1934 ~ October 4, 2025

Neal Gessel Pickett passed away peacefully at his home in Kearns, Utah on October 4, 2025---just the way he had hoped. He was born September 17, 193 in Preston, Idaho, to Leland and Julia Gessell Pickett.

 Neal was the youngest of nine siblings. He grew up surrounded by a large and loving family.

 Neal was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Audene, all 8 of his siblings, and granddaughter, Madison.

 Neal proudly served in the Korean War, joining the military alongside many of his friends. Upon returning home he married the love of his life, Audene Oliverson in 1957. Together they built a beautiful life and raised five children: Shaunna (Sid) Killian, Shanno (Dave) Sanderson, Justin Pickett, Jennifer (Jeff) LeFevre, and Chad (Brenda) Pickett. The family grew to include 17 grandchildren and 24 Great-grandchildren. Neal's greatest joy came from his family and the many family traditions that we carry on today.

 Neal was a skilled Journeyman Fabricator and Welder for Eimco Corporation. He spent many years building mining machinery. He later took a job working for and retiring from Varian Eimac. He never shied away from hard work. His strong work ethic and integrity were values he passed down to his children and grandchildren.

Outside of work, he was equally skilled at planning and preparing meals and gathering his family around the table for good food.

 Neal was known for his quick wit and candid nature, which endeared him to many.

He cherished time spent at the family property in lava Hot Springs, Idaho, where he enjoyed fishing , being outdoors, and working on countless projects---from cutting firewood to clearing brush to resurfacing roads. He always knew when it was time to say, "Break Time!"

 In later years Neal stayed active by going swimming every morning over at the Kearns Rec Center. He cherished the friendships that he made there.

 Neal had a collection of memorable sayings and never hesitated to speak his mind.

His larger-than-life presence, humor, and wisdom will be deeply missed.

Neal will be laid to rest beside his beloved Audene in the Lava Hot Springs Cemetery, surrounded by the beauty and peace of a place they both loved.