Bill was born in Texarkana, Texas in October 1931 to proud parents Carl Cicero and Mattie Susan. Bill was proud to be an American and served his country in the Army for 4 years. Part of that service was in the Korean War, where he was engaged in what was described as “the coldest winter in an historic battle,” at the Chosin Reservoir. Bill gallantly served his country and returned to Texarkana to wed the love of his life, Mary Louise White. Shortly after their wedding, they moved to Southern California for the promise of new opportunity, where they bought a home and started their family.
Bill and Mary lived in Southern California (Artesia) for 28 years, relocating to Orangevale in 1979. Bill met and connected with former military veterans and joined a group known as “The Chosin Few,” where he served as President of the Sacramento Chapter for many years. This was a service-oriented group that gathered to share their experiences in the military and share goodwill with their communities.
Mary preceded Bill with her passing on December 1, 2023 after 72 years of marriage.
Bill is survived by his 3 children: Son William Robert (Bob) Turnage JR (wife Gayle) and Daughters Gina Lumbattis (husband Garrett) and Karla Elliott (husband Kevin). 4 Grandchildren and 10 Great Grandchildren are: Arie Elliott, Rob Turnage III (wife Sarah, sons Levi, Logan), Michele Gasperetti (husband Bill, son Landon, daughter Sadie), Garrett III (wife Mary, sons Nick, Carson, Max, Parker, Daughters Mackenzie, Malia). Bills Sister Sue (Daughters Debbie, Dorothy, Darlene). Niece Diane Cook and Nephew Scott Turnage.
Bill was known to be a loving and kind Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, Son, Brother, Uncle, and a good and happy friend to all that knew him.
A “Celebration of a Good Long Life” will be held on Thursday May 23, 2024 at Mount Vernon Memorial Park. 8201 Greenback Lane. Fair Oaks, CA. Honors and Committal Service presented by the US Army will be held at the Court of Honor Flags at 11:00 am. Reception celebration and luncheon following immediately in main hall.
In lieu of flowers, our family asks that any donations be made to his beloved Church – Calvary Solid Ground. 5750 Sunrise Blvd. #225A. Citrus Heights, CA 95610.
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