William John Schoder

William John Schoder, 93 of Tampa, FL, passed on August 28, 2025. He was born in Queens, New York on 1/21/32. He attended school in Queens and graduated from Queens College, NY with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology where he joined ROTC, beginning his long career of service to our country. Bill served for 23 years in the US Air Force as a fighter pilot reaching the rank of Lieutenant Colonel with tours of duty in Vietnam, Taiwan, the Ivory Coast, Panama and several US bases. After retiring from the Air Force, he pursued his other passion for Bridge as a national tournament director for the American Contract Bridge League and a director for the World Bridge Federation. His nickname “Kojak” is known to many in the Bridge world.

Bill is survived by stepson Mickey Panella of Murray, KY and grandchildren Cheryl and Lee; stepson Bill (Eleanor “Cookie”) Cooper of Lutz, FL and grandson John and great grandchildren Kaitlynn and Cheyenne; brother Carl (Dianne) Schoder of Bolton Landing, NY and nieces Tamara (Andrew) Soper, Carlyn (Russel) Haag, Molly Schoder and great nieces/nephews Amelia, Mason, Emma and Carter; and cousin Erich (Clara) Lenz. He was predeceased by his parents Carl and Mathilde Schoder of Saugerties, NY, his uncle, William (Margaret) Gihlein of Floral Park, NY and his uncle Fritz Gihlein of Chico, CA.

Bill was a classical pianist owning a Steinway piano as probably his most prized possession. His careers in both the Air Force and the Bridge world allowed him to travel to many different parts of the world and to become familiar with many different cultures. Bill spoke several languages fluently including English, German, French and Spanish. His broad range of influences and international experiences resulted in his sense of fairness and equality for all people.

Burial will be at future date at either a National Cemetery or the Arlington National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Bill’s name to Lifepath Hospice, Tampa, FL or to a charity of your choice.