Carl Pick, the founder of Pick Manufacturing, the former parent company of Pick Heaters, was not only recognized as a leading entrepreneur in his day but an avid sportsman, outdoorsman, and community supporter.
He served as the fourth president of the West Bend Chamber of Commerce from 1919 to 1921. He attended the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, competing as a bowler. During his lifetime he acquired 144 acres of land at the tip of the Kettle Moraine, which he developed as a nature retreat.
He supported athletics in West Bend through donations of uniforms, scoreboards, and equipment. Today the West Bend High School Athletic Field bears his name. He also started an award for the best graduating male athlete that is still given today.
Two thirds of his wildlife retreat is now a county park, Ridge Run Park that is dedicated to him. The remainder of the land is home to the University of Wisconsin-Washington County campus.
His legacy was carried on by his son, Alan Pick who ran Pick Heaters from 1952 until 1990.
He was very active in many civic organizations. He served on the local hospital board for nine years, one of the local bank boards for 39 years. He was the first president of the West Bend Jaycees. He and his wife provided the lights for the current West Bend High School Athletic Field, which is named for his father.
Prudence Pick Hway, Alan’s daughter, is the third generation to own and run Pick Heaters. She has carried on the tradition of community service and support begun by her father and grandfather.
Pick Heaters was a major contributor to the $9.6 million dollar Museum of Wisconsin Art, which was opened in April of 2013. The children’s entrance is named after Prudence Pick Hway and Pick Heaters.
Likewise Pick Heaters was a major donor to the $3 million dollar renovation of the local high school arts center – Silver Lining Arts Center. It is utilized by the high school as well as the local community.
Since returning to run Pick Heaters in 1991, Prudence Pick Hway has served on numerous civic, non-profit, charitable foundation and arts boards and has served as board president of several.