David Picard

David Picard CLAREMONT — David Picard, 75, of Claremont, New Hampshire, peacefully passed away in the early morning hours of Sunday, Sept. 27, 2020, at Valley Regional Hospital in Claremont, after a long battle with cancer. The son of Rayburn and Ula (Miller) (Picard) Houston, he was born April 25, 1945, in Claremont. David lived and worked in the Upper Valley for most of his life, moving to Claremont upon his marriage to Shirley Gates; although they later divorced, they remained close companions and he was her caregiver until she passed in 2009. David was a strong, independent man, who never gave up hope of beating cancer. He enjoyed spending time with his stepsons, visiting with his family in Arkansas through phone calls, and being outside when the weather permitted. David was a caring brother, stepfather, uncle and friend. He loved his family and they will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his father and mother; his companion, Shirley Gates; his sisters, Barbara J. Christian and Beverly Ashey; his brother-in-law, Edward Ashey; and his nephew, Joseph Rayburn Christian. David is survived by his stepsons, Bruce Wilkins and wife Melissa of Claremont, Brian Wilkins of Claremont, and Michael Wilkins of Unity, New Hampshire; a brother, Mark Houston and wife Denise of Canaan, New Hampshire; a brother-in-law, Russell Christian Sr. of Harrison, Arkansas; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends who will mourn his passing. A private family celebration of life will be held at a later date. Donations in David’s memory can be made to The Claremont Soup Kitchen and Food Pantry, 53 Central St., Claremont, NH 03743. Or online donations can be made at: https://claremontsoupkitchen.com/support-us/. Arrangements are with Stringer Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 146 Broad St., Claremont, NH 03743. To view an online memorial or send a private message of condolence, visit www.stringerfh.com.