Gaetano "Bill" Capodanno, of Larchmont, passed away July 6, 2016, at age 96. He was born in November 1919 in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn to Gennaro & Teresa (Caruso) Capodanno. He was a graduate of Manual Training High School in Bay Ridge - New York City Boys High School Soccer Champions, 1937; Brooklyn Boro Champions, 1936. He proudly served his country in the United States Army in the Pacific Theatre during World War II. Bill was a Life Member of the VFW David Potts, Jr. Post #1156, where he served as Commander for 16 terms. He also was elected Commander of the Westchester County VFW for the 1956-57 term. He was the founder of the Loyalty Day Parade in Westchester. He was appointed National Deputy Chief of Staff and New York State Aide-de-Camp for the 1965-66 term. He initiated the VFW Post #1156 Scholarship Fund for children of honorably discharged veterans. His love for country continued after his service as he would host Christmas parties and summer BBQ's for disabled veterans, a tradition he was proud to share with his grandsons. He also placed American flags and flowers on the graves of veterans every Memorial Day for 63 years. He served as a volunteer for the Town of Mamaroneck Fire Department for many years. Bill was the beloved husband of 46 years of Christa (Herda) Capodanno. She predeceases him. He is survived by his devoted daughters, Andrea Capodanno and Angela Barbella (John) and cherished grandsons, Joseph & Timothy Barbella, as well as numerous nephews and nieces. He is predeceased by his sister and brother-in-law, Josephine and Donald Jackson. To honor Bill's life, family and friends will gather on Friday 2-4 & 7-9pm at Coxe & Graziano Funeral Home, 767 E. Boston Post Rd., Mamaroneck, 914-698-5968. Funeral Mass on Saturday 10am at Sts. John & Paul RC Church, followed by interment at Beechwood Cemetery. For more information or to place a condolence, www.coxeandgraziano.com

Published in The Journal News on July 8, 2016