Brian E. Pickard

Brian E. Pickard, 69, of Cary, passed away peacefully, and surrounded in love by his family on March 24, 2025 at JourneyCare Hospice in Barrington after a short and agonizing battle with cancer.

Brian was born on March 7, 1956 in New Richmond, WI to Eugene and Verna Pickard. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and a friend to all.

After attending college at UW Lacrosse, he met his wife, Becky while working in Minneapolis. He took a job transfer to San Diego, CA, where the family resided until 1995 when they relocated to Cary, IL.

Brian was an avid hunter and a fisherman. He loved being outdoors and communing with nature. He had the opportunity throughout his life to hunt and fish all over the continent, and so many of his fondest memories came from these moments.

Brian will be remembered for his positivity, his smile, his big belly laugh, and most of all, for his hugs. Among those fortunate enough to have hugged him, it was widely known that he gave the ‘best hugs’. He would share in your joy or comfort you in your sorrow but when he wrapped you in his long arms and pulled you in close, it was exactly what you needed.

Brian was a dedicated grandfather to his three grandchildren who loved him to the moon and back. He was so proud of their accomplishments and truly enjoyed helping them grow. He was a staple at their sporting events, and will always be their #1 fan.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 41 years, Rebecca Pickard (Bartling). He is survived by his children, John (Beth) Tabacsko, and David (Kimberle) Tabacsko, and three grandchildren: Kristine (15), Ellie (11), and Joseph (11).

He leaves behind nine siblings: Carol Stotts, Jim (Mona) Pickard, Deanna Erickson, Michael (Lynn) Pickard, Neil (Sally) Pickard, Brent (Jan) Pickard, Darlene (Burt) Beebe, Becky (Tom) Peterson, Amy Pickard, and 32 nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be Sunday, March 30, 2025 from 10 AM until the funeral service at 2:30 PM at Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave. (Rte. 176), Crystal Lake, IL 60014. Interment will be private.