Rick was born on July 26, 1944, in Mason City, Iowa. 

He spent his high school years in Cortez, Colorado where he earned his varsity letter in three sports: football (playing center at only 150 lbs.), wrestling and a middle-distance runner in track and field. Rick graduated from Biola College and went on to earn a master’s degree in education from Northern Arizona University. 

He believed deeply in the value of hard work, education, character, and doing what was right. Family and faith were the cornerstones of Rick’s life. He was a devoted believer who loved Jesus and faithfully supported missionaries and various churches for decades. 

Rick had a great love for the outdoors, especially the mountains in Colorado. Most summers were spent in the Rocky Mountains at Trout Lake, fishing, hiking and enjoying the beauty of the place that felt most like home to him. He also loved technology, especially Apple products which created a deep bond, and lots of calls with his brother Mike Pickett. 

He leaves a legacy of four children: Teri, Shane, Heidi and Shiloh and five grandchildren: Hayden, Sydney, Stella, Robert and Ben.