William Ralph Pickerell

William Ralph Pickerell, 75, of Fulton left his earthly body on Wednesday, January 11, 2017, his family by his side and his wife holding his hand. He was born on August 30, 1941 in Audrain County, the son of the late Jess Pickerell and the late Frances Lorene (Dutton) Pickerell. On September 1, 1988, Ralph was united in marriage to Penny (Barger) Pickerell. She will miss "Mr. P," their special bond, and his gentle kindness. Ralph proudly served in the Missouri National Guard for six years. He worked as an installer/repairman for Kingdom Telephone Company until his retirement in 2002. He found great pleasure in working his farm and raising Angus cattle. He was an avid golfer until his health declined. Ralph was a member of VFW Post 2657 and Masonic Lodge 246. Family was most important to Ralph as was evident in the way he spoke so fondly of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchild. Those remaining to cherish his memory include his wife, Penny of the home; son, David Pickerell (Carie) of Montgomery City; daughters, Michelle Schulte (John) of Des Moines, Iowa, Tracy Drury (Jeff) of Ames, Iowa and Suzy Harrison (Brad Moore) of Auxvasse; nine grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 17, 2017, at Maupin Funeral Home in Fulton with Chaplain Ken Greiman officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Monday, January 16, 2017, at the funeral home. Interment with Military Honors will be in Auxvasse Cemetery. Memorial donations are suggested to VFW Post 2657, c/o Maupin Funeral Home, 301 Douglas Boulevard, Fulton, MO 65251. Condolences may be left for the family at maupinfuneralhome.com.