Van was born June 10, 1936, in Waco, Texas to Benjamin “Dick” and Elsie Pickens and attended school at La Vega ISD.
A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Van served with distinction in the Korean War, when he met and married the love of his life, Peggy Hoch.
After leaving the armed forces, he was a successful business owner in the automotive salvage market.
Van enjoyed spending time with his family, visiting small Texas towns, and collecting antiques.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his four sisters, Doris Glatter, Rowena Ledbetter, Patsy Arnie, and Bonnie McLaughlin; his brother, Benjamin “Buck” Pickens; and his beloved dog, Rambo.
He is survived by his wife, Peggy; two daughters, Peggy Watts and Mary Allen; son, Richard Pickens and wife, Karen; grandchildren, Johnny Watts and wife, Jessica, James Thomas and wife, Brandy, Raymond Thomas, Elijah Bollier, and LeeAnn Bollier; and 9 great-grandchildren.
