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CloseFrancis J. "Pic" Picray, Jr.
January 02, 2015
Devoted husband, father, and Des Moines native Francis J. Picray Jr. found everlasting peace on January 2, 2015 after a prolonged illness.
Casually known as as “Chik” while serving with the U.S. Navy during WWII, and later as “Pic” to many of his friends, he was most affectionately known simply as “Dad.” As a younger man, he was active in the community as a Civil Air Patrol pilot; a Little League Baseball coach; and a boy scout troop leader. He also enjoyed his work as a freelance news photographer; a VFW Post 738 Commander; a Master Mason; a volunteer DNR Hunter Education Instructor; and a U.S. Navy Reserve Petty Officer First Class assigned to Fort Des Moines Seabee Battalion 25—from which he retired.
Francis was the quintessential Jack-of-all-trades as a Master Plumber, a mechanical contractor, the builder of his family home, and founder of Ready Service Company which he operated with his lifetime partner, confidant, and mother of his children.
But beyond what he did, he will be fondly remembered and greatly respected as a man who never accepted that one "can't fight city hall." He thus embodied the notion that fighting the good fight is its own reward regardless of the result.
Dad is survived by his wife of sixty-eight years, Mary; sons, Francis "Bud" Picray III (Lois), David Picray, and Michael Picray (Melodee); daughter, Kathy Simpson; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday, January 12, 2015 at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. Funeral services will begin at 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 13, also at Hamilton’s. Burial with military honors will follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Pleasant Hill.
Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Anchors Aweigh, Old Salt! Smooth Sailing!
Sarah Edwards
01/12/2015
Kathy and family-We are so sorry to hear of your father's passing. We know how much you loved him and cared for him. Praying for you and the family during this difficult time.
Saylom Thorpe
01/12/2015
Kathy - and family
So sorry to hear of your loss. Will be saying a prayer for you!
Take care.
Roger Picray
01/11/2015
I am the son of Joseph Francis Picray of Monticello, Iowa.
I live in Emmetsburg, Iowa. Even though I never met Francis, I am sorry for your loss.
Linda Simmons
01/07/2015
I'm so sorry for your loss...I have many memory's of Uncle Chic's opinions and adventures. Also to all the fun times. He will be missed by many. May the Lord give you peace at this time.
Mary Belieu
01/07/2015
Aunt Mary and cousins,
I am so sorry for your loss. Uncle Chic was certainly one of a kind! Our families Saturday night dinners at the Latin King were infamous. Hugs to all of you. RIP Uncle Chic.
Mike West
01/06/2015
I am sorry we weren't closer, but I will always remember your kindness to me.
May your soul rest in peace with the love of God.