Edward D. Picton "Dave", 87, passed away May 31, 2011, in Carson City, Nevada.  He was born September 2, 1923, in Los Angeles to Edward and Blanche Picton. 

Dave was a World War II veteran, serving in the U.S. Army/Air Corps which later became the U.S. Air Force.  Dave served as a pilot instructor with multi-engine instrument rating for the B25 J Bomber aircraft.  Dave's lifelong interest in aviation started early when he acquired a pilot's license at the age of 16.  He attended Pasadena City College where his study included a degree program in aerospace technology.

Following World War II Dave worked for the Naval Weapon Research Center in China Lake, California.  After that he was at the North American Aviation Rocketdyne division in Canoga Park, CA., later he joined Lockheed Aircraft Corporation in Burbank, CA., retiring in 1987.  Dave enjoyed fishing, hunting, and other outdoor activities.

He was preceded in death by his first wife of 51 years, Shirley, who passed away in 1996.  Dave remarried and lost his second wife, Ruth Carpenter Picton (SPHS '40) in 2010.

Dave is survived by two sons, Richard and Randy Picton; four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Nevada Appeal, June 9, 2011