Andrea Margaret Pickard

Andrea Margaret (Gardner) Pickard, age 73, of Braceville, IL. passed away after a long fight with Alzheimer’s disease on February 16, 2020. Andrea was born on November 22, 1946, in Sodius, New York, to Bernard and Margaret (Mandigo) Gardner. In 1968, she married her amazing partner, Dave, who supported her through every step of their lives together. She worked as an aide at Fox Developmental Center in Dwight, IL. and as a correctional counselor at the Stateville Prison in Joliet, IL. She also volunteered as a grief call line operator for the Will/Grundy Crisis Line. She was a member of Grace Bible Church in Channahon, IL. Andrea was generous and had a kind heart, which she shared with those around her. She spent much of her life lending a listening ear and sharing her home to help those in need. She was strong and resilient. She survived breast cancer twice and fought for many years against Alzheimer’s disease. She loved holding babies, playing with children, and she loved adventure and exploring the world’s beauty. She often found peace within the waters, mountains, and forests. She embraced the beauty of a sunset as often as she could. Andrea lived each day loving with her whole heart. She loved to sing and hum. She had a song on her heart every day. Her laughter was contagious and filled the room. She especially loved her husband, children, and grandchildren. She treasured and held close all of the special moments they shared. Andrea is preceded in death by her parents, brother and 2 sister-in-laws. She is survived by her loving husband, David; sons Donald (Cecelia) and Chooch (Dexter); daughter Catherine (Ian) Ripmaster; daughter-in-law Heather Trayler; grandchildren Amber, Colten, Connor, Robert, Cory, Stephanie, Ethan, Evan, Greyson, Carlyn, and Sullivan; as well as her sister Bernadette (Donald) Haddleton, sister and brother in laws Diane (Mike) Visconti and Bill Herkala; nieces and nephews. The family is so grateful for the love that has been poured on them during this difficult time from family and friends. Special thanks to their granddaughter, Amber Johnson, who moved in to take amazing care of her while still in her home. Also, thanks to Aperion Care in Wilmington, IL, Alden Courts in Shorewood, IL, and Joliet Hospice for supporting our family and making Andrea comfortable in her last days. Visitation will be held from 11am-1pm on Saturday, February 22, 2020 at R.W. Patterson Funeral Home, located at 401 E Main St. Braidwood, IL 60406. A memorial service will immediately follow the visitation beginning at 1pm at R.W. Patterson Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org.

Andrea Margaret Pickard

November 22, 1946 - February 16, 2020

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Andrea Margaret Pickard

November 22, 1946 - February 16, 2020

What We Do

Local Florists

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About Us

Plan Ahead

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

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365 Days of Grief Support