Ernst "Ernie" Wendell Pickens

Ernst W. Pickens, 83, passed away on Monday, April 26, 2021 at his home with his family beside him in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 28, 2021 from 9am to 8pm with family greeting guest from 5-7pm at Dighton Marler Funeral Home of Stillwater. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 29, 2021 at 2:00pm at Sunnybrook Christian Church in Stillwater. Interment will follow at Paradise Cemetery in Coyle, Oklahoma.
Ernie was third child of Gladys and Harold Pickens Sr. born on September 30, 1937 outside of Longdale, OK. Ernie graduated from Canton High School where he was active in FFA and played sports.
Ernie married love of his life, Peggy Ella Trook, in Canton, OK on October 6, 1956. They moved to Oklahoma City where he worked for a sign company. In 1960, they moved to Stillwater, OK to work for J B Perky Ranch and later the Downey ID Ranch. Ernie was a farmer, rancher, carpenter, truck driver but he was most well known as an auctioneer and real estate broker. Ernie and Peggy started Pickens Auction Company in 1960. He raised cattle including registered Shorthorns and horses, loved playing cards, listening to country music especially western swing. He always had a story to share. He enjoyed watching the baseball/basketball games and attending the livestock shows of his children and grandchildren. He loved everyone unconditionally.
He was a member of Sunnybrook Christian Church and in later years attended the 1st Methodist Church.
Ernie is survived by his cherished wife of 64 years, Peggy, children and spouses, Brent and Sharyl, Bret and Stephanie, Shelley and Sammie Dawson, Gregg and Rachel. Grandchildren Samantha Dawson and Dallas Camren, Katie and Paul Harless, Heath and Megan Pickens, Chad and Kim Pickens, Westin and Geno Younger, Cassie Pickens, Justin and Aly Pickens, Colt Pickens, Ella Pickens, Will and Tori Pickens, Pete Pickens, Jaxon Pickens and Riva Pickens. Great grandchildren, Camden, Judah, Dayton, Elise and 2 on the way.
His brothers Harold Pickens Jr. and Emitt Pickens, sisters Phoebe Barrick and Phyllis Herod special brother-in-law and sister in law Larry and Mel Trook, Sister in law Jo Ann Westbrook, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and treasured friends.
He is predeceased by his mom and dad, mother and father in law, brother Carson, sister-in-law Gerda, brothers-in-law-Dale, Dick, Glen, Howard, grandchildren Shane, Rachel, Caroline.
The family wishes to express their gratitude to Karman Legacy Hospice and Ray of Sunshine Helping Hands, Stillwater Medical Center 5th floor staff for taking such good care of Dad/Grandpa.
Memorial contributions can be made to Karman Legacy Hospice c/o Dighton Marler Funeral Home, 5106 N. Washington St., Stillwater, Oklahoma 74075.
Condolences may be sent to the family via an online guest book at www.dightonmarler.com.