Ronald Henry Pickens

Born on July 23, 1944, in Tampa, Florida, Ronald was the beloved son of Henry Vincent and Ann Sophie Pickens. He was mostly raised in Toledo, Ohio, where he completed much of his schooling before attending the University of Toledo. While at the University of Toledo, Ronald participated in the Army ROTC program and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. Upon graduation, he received his commission as an officer in the United States Army. He later continued his education at Central Michigan University, where he obtained his master's degree.

A proud Army officer, Ronald served as a 10th Offensive Combat Artillery Officer during the Vietnam War and was stationed in Vietnam. During the 1968 Tet Offensive, while stationed at Cu Chi, his base came under enemy attack, and Ronald was wounded after being shot in the shoulder. For his sacrifice and service, he was awarded the Purple Heart, an honor of which he remained deeply proud throughout his life. His distinguished military career continued with the United States Army Reserves, where he achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel before retiring. Ronald remained deeply proud of his military service throughout his life.

In addition to his military accomplishments, Ronald enjoyed a successful 30-year career as an accountant with General Motors.

Dedicated to his fellow veterans, Ronald was a member of the American Legion and VFW Post 6250. A gifted linguist, he learned to speak both Korean and Chinese. In his leisure time, he enjoyed reading fiction and was a man of deep Catholic faith.

Though naturally private, Ronald was greatly loved by those closest to him. In recent years, he resided at the Michigan Veterans Home in Chesterfield, where he formed many meaningful friendships and became a valued member of the community.

Ronald is survived by his loving children, Mary Pickens, Richard Pickens, and David Pickens; his grandchildren, Michael Neo Pickens and Nicole Trinity Pickens; and his brothers, Gerald (Sharon) Pickens and Jeffery (Susan) Pickens.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Ann Pickens, and his infant brother, James Pickens.

A memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 AM, in-state at 10:30 AM, on Friday, June 26, 2026 at St. Michael Catholic Church, 40501 Hayes Rd., Sterling Heights, MI 48313; (586) 247-0020.

Ronald will receive military funeral honors at 1:30 PM on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at Great Lakes National Cemetery, 4200 Belford Road, Holly, MI 48442. Guests attending the committal service are kindly requested to arrive at the cemetery at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled service time to allow for assembly and procession to the committal shelter.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Ronald’s memory to the Vietnam Veterans of America. A link to donate online is included below.

Ronald’s legacy of service, dedication, intelligence, and quiet strength will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.