William B. Baldaccini

William (“Bill”) B. Baldaccini, age 95, of Littleton, Colorado, passed away peacefully at home on October 18, 2025, surrounded by love. Just weeks earlier, he had joyfully celebrated his 95th birthday — a milestone that brought him great pride and gratitude.

Born on October 2, 1930, in Chicago, Illinois, Bill grew up in a close-knit Italian-American family. He attended Queen of Angels Elementary School and later qualified for and graduated from Lane Tech High School. His strong work ethic was evident from an early age — from wrapping and delivering packages at a local drugstore to lending a hand in his father’s soap shop.

At the age of 19, Bill answered the call of duty and enlisted in the United States Armed Forces. He served proudly from 1949 to 1952, including active duty in Korea. His leadership and courage on the front lines earned him the rank of Sergeant — a promotion he received on his 21st birthday. A true patriot, Bill carried his love of country throughout his life, remaining deeply appreciative of the Veterans Administration and proud of his time in uniform. He was also a devoted member of the Littleton VFW Post and helped to found the Proud to Be an American school program, inspiring young people to honor and understand the freedoms of their nation.

Following his service, Bill attended the University of Illinois, where he balanced his studies with long hours as a Chicago taxi driver — a role that gave him an endless collection of stories and a deep appreciation for people from all walks of life. He went on to become a respected structural engineer, serving the City of Des Plaines, Illinois, and later the City and County of Denver. His expertise and dedication were instrumental in the development of the Uniform Building Code, leaving a lasting impact on communities throughout the region.

Bill married the love of his life, Shirley, on July 15, 1989. Together they shared 36 wonderful years of marriage, filled with travel, laughter, and deep devotion. Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley Baldaccini; her children Cindy LeFevre and Dan (Valerie) LeFevre; his sister Jeraldine Davidson; niece Trish (Joe) Badalamenti; nephews Vince (Renee) Baldaccini and Tracy Baldaccini; nieces Kathleen Davidson, Valerie (David) Mason, Mary (Terry) Stanton, Christine (John) Jacobsen; nephews Mark Davidson, Michael (Carol) Davidson, Neil (Suzanne) Davidson; and many cherished grand- and great-grand nieces and nephews.

Bill’s life was filled with adventure and purpose. He shared his knowledge by teaching adult education classes on the geopolitics of the Korean War, and he led the “Skimeisters” downhill skiing group for several seasons at Winter Park. As a member of the Colorado Mountain Club, he embraced the beauty of the Rockies — whether on the slopes or in his garden, where he grew magnificent dahlias in his later years. A skilled pilot, Bill also enjoyed the freedom of flight, often taking to the skies in small aircraft.

His travels took him around the world, including two memorable trips to Italy — to Pescia, the ancestral home of his parents. There, he connected with family over home-cooked meals and rediscovered the roots of the Baldaccini family, whose journey from Italy to Chicago began long before his own.

Bill Baldaccini lived his life with integrity, service, and an unwavering love for his country. He was a man who believed deeply in the American spirit — in hard work, gratitude, and the enduring strength of freedom. His life was a testament to the values he held dear, and his legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him.