John Pickerill

1934 - 2025

John Pickerill, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the age of 91. He was born on April 3, 1934, to Marold Pickerill and Josephine (Wiseman) Pickerill. John grew up in Council Bluffs, where he graduated from Abraham Lincoln High School. During his time there, he played football, a sport he was deeply passionate about. Following high school, John answered the call of duty and proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Korean Conflict. On August 12, 1965, John married the love of his life, Betty Gardner. Their union brought forth a loving family, including their cherished daughter, Judi, who joined her siblings Russell, Hope, Paula, and Nancy. John's professional journey led him to a fulfilling career as a truck driver associated with the Teamsters. Upon retiring, he embarked on a second career as a Crop Insurance Adjuster, traveling across the Midwest, meeting farmers, and ensuring their claims were assessed correctly and fairly. A man of varied interests, John's passion for hunting began in his childhood and continued throughout his life. Many happy times were spent in the great outdoors with his loyal dogs and close friends. Later in life, he took up golfing and found immense joy and relaxation on the green. A keen sports enthusiast, John delighted in watching football and horse racing in his later years and took special pleasure in following the pursuits and achievements of his grandchildren.

John is survived by his children, Judi (Clint) Hamaker, Russell (Betty) Hall, Hope (Clay) Woods, Paula Hall, and Nancy Bell; sister, Flo Mass; sister-in-law, Sally Pickerill. He leaves behind a legacy of love through his grandchildren, Chloe and Wyatt Hamaker, Jason Hall, Jeremy Hall, Michelle (David) Nelson, Carrie Housh, and Kelly Hayes, as well as his great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Betty; his brother, Phil Pickerill; brother-in-law, Jerry Mass, Brooks Gardner, Robert Gardner, Larry (Barb) Gardner; and his grandson, Mike B Antrim.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate John's life at the Forest Lawn Funeral Home Memorial Park & Crematory in Omaha, NE. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025, from 1 to 1:30 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at 1:30 p.m. all at Forest Lawn Funeral Home. Arrangements for the services are provided by Forest Lawn Funeral Home.