Dale Harvey Pickett's Obituary
Dale Harvey Pickett, age 69 of Clarkston, Michigan, passed away on January 29th, 2026 at McLaren Oakland in Pontiac, Michigan. He was born on March 27th, 1956 in Royal Oak and was raised in Waterford, Michigan by Jack and Mary Jean Pickett.
Beloved husband of Ronda, loving father to Sean (Emily) and Kevin (Morgan), and treasured Papa to Ruby Jean. Loyal brother to Mary Kay, Anita (Steve), Brian, Karin (Dave), April (Warren), and LuAndria. Caring in-law to Myrna, Jeffrey, Deena, Kirstin, and Neisha. Cherished uncle to many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.
Dale grew up as one of seven feisty siblings, making memories that last a lifetime. Amongst all the ruckus was always intense love and respect for each other. He married his loving wife, Ronda, in 1984 and enjoyed 41 beautiful years of life with her. They welcomed their first son, Sean, in 1990 who was followed by Kevin in 1994. When Dale wasn't at home, he was out bowling, hunting, fishing, and golfing. He worked his way up to becoming an electrician for General Motors, managed to restore his family's cabin in the U.P. along with his brother Brian and brother-in-law Steve, and saw both of his sons graduate college to become teachers.
Our dad was a true family man. His job never got in the way of seeing our games or performances, helping (yelling in frustration) with math homework, or making Sunday pancakes. On weekends he often brought us along to work on the house or the car (sorry we didn't pay more attention). Summers were carved out for time spent at the cabin together fly fishing, napping, eating blueberries, and grabbing a seat at the Cobblestone. Holidays were always spent together with the whole Pickett family at Grandma Mary Jean’s, usually gathered around a table packed with every delicious dish.
Dad wore many hats, both literal and figurative. With all his hats, he was always a parent first, and we are so thankful he took that position seriously. He loved being "Dr. Dale" at home, working on solutions for any medical issue that elicited a "C'mere, I can fix that". Chef Dale came out when manning the grill, and with his camo on out in a deer blind he became "Buckmaster". Biker Dale loved hitting the road for long trips on his Harley with family and friends. He was overjoyed to finally put on his “Papa” hat. Whether face to face or through video calls, Papa found time to be with his Ruby almost every day. Their love for each other was apparent to anyone who saw them together.
In his courageous battle with cancer, which he beat for five years, he saw his two sons get married and became a grandfather. Ronda was dedicated by his side every minute. They were each other's rock for more than four decades, and through such trying times their love and support for one another only deepened.
Dad, you were always ready with a laugh or wise comment. You were kind, thoughtful, and fiercely devoted. Thank you for your example as an exceptional husband, father, sibling, and friend. Your legacy continues on through all of us. Although it wasn't enough, we’ll be forever grateful for our time with you, and you’ll always be held close to our hearts.
Dale Harvey is survived by his wife, sons, daughters-in-law, granddaughter, five sisters, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Brian, his parents-in-law, Lois and Paul, and his brothers-in-law, Bill and Brett.
Visitation will be held on Friday, February 6th from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm with the Funeral Service on Saturday, February 7th at 11:00 am at Hopcroft Funeral Home, 31145 John R. Road, Madison Heights, Michigan.
Memorial Contributions can be made in Dale's memory St. Jude Children's Hospital. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
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