Joseph was born to Elmer and Rosa "Rosie" (Vacca) Picton. He married Florence E. May on May 31, 1947. She preceded him in death on Feb. 5, 2007.

Surviving are three children, Jennifer Picton, Joel (Amy) Picton and Joni (Brent) Hootman; five grandchildren, Brandon, Zac and Trent Hootman, and Tory and Tanner Picton; and four great-grandchildren, Brittany, Alivia, Ella and Konnor Hootman.

He was preceded in death by one brother, Roderick Thomas Picton; and one sister, Albina M. Sepich.

He was a mechanic for Consol Coal Mine for 42 1/2 years, retiring in 1981, and a member of the UMWA.

He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Canton.

He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, and was a member of VFW Post 1984.

Published in the Peoria Journal Star on 9/17/2008

Joseph James Picton