Richard Raymond Pickering

Richard Raymond Pickering

Richard Raymond Pickering
December 10, 1942 – September 28, 2025

With deep love and heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Richard Raymond Pickering on September 28, 2025, at the age of 82.

Born to the late Jack and Jeannette Pickering, Richard lived a life rich with family, friendship, and laughter. He was the beloved husband of Carol Pickering, who always saw Richard as her dear, sweet, wonderful, and loving husband. Their life together was filled with devotion, partnership, and countless cherished memories that will remain in her heart forever.

Richard was a devoted father to Dillon Pickering (Nora), Laurie Clement (Michael), and Rob Pelzer (Lou-Anne). Above all, he cherished his role as ‘Grandpa’ to Jake (Natasha), Katie, Chloe (Jared), and Leo, and as ‘Great-Grandpa’ to Eloise. 

He will be dearly missed by his siblings, Robert Pickering (Myrna), Barbara Gosselin (Gerry), and Nancy Ruch (late Bill), and his late brother, Tom Pickering. Richard was an amazing brother-in-law to Barbara Zimmerman (John), Sandra Brown (late Ron), Donna Bode (late Fritz), Margaret MacLelland (Bill), and Debbie Disher.  He will be missed by many nieces and nephews.    

Richard dedicated 35 years to Burger King, opening Canada’s first location in 1969 at Tecumseh and Drouillard. As the proud owner and operator of five franchises, he poured his energy into building a business grounded in community and hospitality. He loved the game of golf, spending countless hours with friends on the course and generously sponsoring the BK Tour for over 25 years. 

Richard lived life to the fullest, enjoying happy hours, travelling, and spending cherished time in Grand Bend making lifelong memories. He loved cruising in his favorite cars, sharing laughs at cigar and card clubs, and relaxing at Windsor Yacht Club and Beach Grove. He was a proud member of the Fairview Athletic Club, where the adventures were less about athletics and more about good company, beers, and barbecues.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to Richard’s doctors, the compassionate staff at the Village of St. Clair, and the hospital teams who cared for him with great kindness and respect.

If you so desire, donations in his memory may be made to a charity of your choice.

Richard’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. At his request, cremation has taken place. The family warmly invites everyone to join them in celebrating his life on Saturday, October 11th, at Wineology, Tecumseh Road from 12:00 – 3:00 p.m.