April 1, 1942 ~ February 16, 2016 On the morning of February 16, 2016, Alan passed away after eight years battling with leukemia and newly diagnosed lung cancer.  Alan was visited and comforted by friends and family members at Lutheran Hospital and Collier Hospice Center in Wheat Ridge, CO.  His sons James Alan Pickens and Benjamin Pickens were by his side at the time of his passing.  Alan was 73 years old. Alan Pickens was born in Kansas on April 1, 1942.  He is the son of Ruth Evelyn (Nelson) Pickens and Andrew McNamara Pickens.  Alan lived in Thornton, Colorado for many years and was a retired butcher.  He was married to Janice Hines for over 20 years.  He enjoyed listening to his police scanner, going to Mickey’s with friends, and hearing about his grandchildren.  Alan was preceded in death by his brother, George Pickens, and his son, John Francis Pickens.  Alan is survived by his children, Kathy Lindsey, James Alan Pickens, and Benjamin Pickens, his seven grandchildren, three step-grandchildren, and one great grandchild. Survivors also include his brother, six sisters, and numerous nieces and nephews.  He will be missed by his family and friends.