William (Bill) Edward Pignone, 67, peacefully passed away from pulmonary fibrosis in his home on January 13th, 2020. Bill was a decorated veteran who served in the Vietnam War as a security police officer and spent 16 years in active duty overall.
Bill was born on July 9, 1952 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. When he was just 18 years old, he decided he wanted to serve his country and joined the United States Air Force. He was first stationed at Langley Air Force base in Hampton, Virginia. From there he moved to MacDill AFB in Tampa, Florida, Kelly AFB in San Antonio, Texas and his last service station took him to Elmendorf AFB in Anchorage, Alaska. He finished his military career as an audio visual tech and had great memories of the things he was able to do while serving in that capacity.
Shortly after joining the Air Force, Bill married his high school sweetheart, Joanne. Bill and Joanne celebrated 47 years of marriage on October 21 of last year.
After separating from the military, Bill worked as a cameraman and audio-visual specialist in Anchorage, Alaska at the local NBC station, (KTUU Channel 2). After leaving NBC, Bill worked for United Airlines, which ultimately brought him back to Texas. Bill worked faithfully until he had a heart attack in May 2018 and could no longer continue his employment.
Bill was a kid at heart and loved playing video games. He spent many hours daydreaming with Joanne about where they would take their next cruise. He also loved the Philadelphia Eagles with a passion and was thrilled to see them win a Super Bowl in 2018! (Fly, Eagles, Fly!!!!!) He found great joy in watching his grandchildren participate in various activities such as football, basketball, softball, concerts and plays.
Bill is survived by his beautiful and loving wife, Joanne (Hartsough) Pignone. Daughters, Tracy (Daniel) Skipworth and Kelly (Michael) Fowler. Grandchildren Alvin, Dylan, Kayla Skipworth and Morgan Fowler. Bill is also survived by his brother Richard Pignone of Elkhart, Indiana. Additionally, he is survived by nieces and nephews. His family is small, but he loved them BIG.
Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Mary (Brown) Pignone and his brother Joseph Pignone.
Long known for his outspoken love for Jesus, we feel peace knowing that Bill is right where he has always longed to be.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 230 East Ohio Street, Suite 500, Chicago, IL 60611.
https://app.mobilecause.com/vf/PFFTribute/WilliamEPignone