In high school, Dennis was known as a jock and a track star. He continued his active lifestyle by being an avid bowler. When he wasn't playing sports himself he was watching it on TV, especially if it was IU. After graduation he attended a technical college in Kentucky, where he studied electrical engineering and built the foundation for a life shaped by skill, discipline, and hard work. From there, Dennis devoted his career to Delco Electronics, where he worked until his retirement.
At the heart of Dennis’s life was his family. He married his best friend, Julie Kidwell, not once but three times. They built a life together full of love, laughter, and memories. He adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; they were his world, and he was theirs.
He is survived by his loving partner Julie Pickett; children Stacy Pickett and Christopher Pickett; grandchildren Seth Pickett, Devon Pickett, Mary Payne, Phoenix Pickett, and Karma Young; great-grandchildren Ezra Perrigen and Aria Young; siblings Jerry Pickett and Barb Starbuck; as well as several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents Dennis is preceded in death by his brother Terry Pickett and nephew Terry Joe Pickett.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Ellers Mortuary, 3400 S. Webster Street, Kokomo, IN 46902, on September 30, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice Foundation of America, 5225 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Suite 403, Washington, DC 20015.
