Bill H. Picardo

Bill Picardo was peacefully called home to heaven on Friday, February 11, 2022 after succumbing to COVID-19. He was a devoted husband, father, and coach throughout his life. He is survived by his loving wife Chiquita, his son Patrick, daughter-in-law Beth, and his two grandsons Marco and Mason Picardo.

He was born in Lima, Peru after his parents immigrated from Italy. He served proudly in the Peruvian military as a cavalry officer before moving to the United States. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and quickly rose to the rank E-7/Sergeant First Class. His chain of command recommended he become an officer and sent him to Officer Candidate School (OCS). After OCS, he was deployed in support of the Vietnam War. In 1978, he retired from active duty as an O-4/Major serving 20-years.

In 1978, he continued his love for the military as a civil service employee at Fort Sam Houston, TX. In May 2021, he finally retired from the federal government serving 43-years. Bill selflessly served our country with a combined 63-years of military and federal service.

In the 1970’s and 80’s, Bill was an avid soccer player and coach. He coached his son’s soccer team from elementary through high school. They won numerous state championships but that wasn’t important to him. Molding the boys, he coached into men was the most important thing to him -- mission accomplished! At the same time, he coached and played on his men’s soccer team that was equally successful. He simply loved the “beautiful game” of football (aka soccer).

He was a cherished husband, father, and friend.

Bill’s ashes will be interred at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in a private graveside service.