John D Pickering

John D. Pickering, of O’Fallon, Missouri, passed away February 22, 2025 at 81 years of age. Born in Unionville, Mo in 1943, John graduated from Missouri State Teacher’s College (now Truman State University) before embarking on a career as a middle and high school biology teacher. He met his wife of 59 years, Susan Bennett, in college. They married in 1965, and they had two children, Jeff and (Mary) Jane. John was a kind, supportive and caring father for both Jeff and his spouse, Rachel (Topeka KS), and Jane (Stephens) and her spouse, Brad (O’Fallon MO).

John taught for 30 years at Ferguson Middle School and McCluer High School. He thoroughly enjoyed teaching and helping students to grow and to excel. He coached track and started the spelunking club at the high school. He proudly served for over three decades in the US Army Reserves retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. Among his many roles in the Reserves, he particularly enjoyed teaching about nuclear, chemical and biological warfare at the US Army’s Command and General Staff College. He served many years as an Alderman for the city of Foristell, Mo, where he started the city’s curbside recycling program and advised on city investments. He was proud of his public service and volunteered to work the polls on countless election days.

John was an avid conservationist and loved the outdoors. He was a lifelong gardener and was well known for his home-grown vegetables. Asparagus from his garden was a particular delight. He without doubt found peace in nature. Poker was another favorite hobby. John also loved his many pets and dogs of all types gravitated toward him, perhaps sensing his kindness.

John especially loved spending time with his family, particularly his grandsons Mark, Sam, and Will. Family trips to Bunker Hill Teacher’s Resort on the Jack’s Fork River in Missouri were a special time for him where he could hike, canoe and form priceless memories with his grandsons. He had a special bond with each of them.

He is preceded in death by his mother Vera, father Harold, and brother-in-law Mike Bowles. He is survived by his brother Dennis, sister-in-law Joyce, sister DeeAnn, his wife Susan and his children and grandchildren.

John Pickering was a kind man who treated everyone with dignity and respect. He will be deeply missed. A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org.