Memorial
Vernon E. ‘Buck’ Pickerill of Amana, Iowa, passed away peacefully May 13, 2023. He was 91 years old. A celebration of life ceremony will be held Friday, May 19, 4 – 7 p.m. at Cedar Memorial in Cedar Rapids. A private burial will follow at Cedar Memorial.
Buck, a loving husband, brother, caring father and grandfather is survived by his wife of 45 years, Joan Pickerill (Gardemann), Amana, daughters Patty (Dana) Mellen, Shelley (Gary) Sweet, and stepchildren JD Towe and Allison Towe. His grandchildren include Devon, Jason, Travis, Chelsea, Lindsey, 6-great grandchildren, a brother Jack Pickerill and several nieces and nephews. Buck was preceded in death by his parents, a sister Thelma Fye, step-sons Thad and Tracy Miller and step granddaughter, Leigh Schilling.
Buck was a 1949 graduate of Roosevelt High School, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1949-1953. After returning from his military service, he became a firefighter in the Cedar Rapids Fire Department, then served as the Recorder for the El Kahir Shrine before finally retiring from Amana Refrigeration.
One of his most memorable endeavors was participating in the 2019 Eastern Iowa Honor Flight where veterans visit military memorials in Washington D.C.
A scratch golfer, you often would find Buck on any of a number of golf courses in the area happily pursuing one of his favorite pastimes with his many friends. A University of Iowa Hawkeye sports fan, he rarely missed a game and always appreciated a great conversation.
Buck’s thoughtful, caring manner was something everyone related to, and he was always the first to lend a helping hand. We will miss his easy-going demeanor and wonderful smile.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the
Amana Firefighters Association.