Julius Picardi, 63-year-member of The PWFD, Died at 84

Julius A. Picardi, a lifelong resident of Port Washington and a dedicated community servant, passed away on Dec. 15, 2010. He was 84.

Picardi was born on May 29, 1926, to Alexander and Rosina Picardi, who hailed from Voltara Irpina, Naples, Italy. Julius Picardi graduated from Port Washington High School in 1944. He married Mary Truss of Great Neck in May 1953.

“He never fought in a war but he was still part of the greatest generation,” noted Picardi’s son, also named Julius, referring to the Americans who helped build the nation into a superpower.

The elder Picardi attended electrical trade school and worked at LILCO for 39 years. As a licensed electrician, he was well-known around town for the many small contracting jobs he completed over the years. Picardi was a man who loved to give back to his hometown. He joined the on Jan. 3, 1947.

"He was a 63-year member of the department,” said Chief Thomas McDonough. “He was an all around good guy.”

After retiring from LILCO in 1990, Picardi became even more involved in the many committees within the department. In addition to being a member of the PWFD, he was a member of the Port Washington Exempt Firefighters Benevolent Association, the North Shore Fire Council, and the Nassau County Fire Police, where he attained the rank of lieutenant.

Picardi was also a supporter of the and assisted with the organization’s fundraising efforts. 

“He was a gentleman from the word go,” said PYA Director Ron Henderson. “Julius was always there whenever you needed him. He was one of the nicest guys.”

Picardi was predeceased by his parents, brothers Anthony (Bonesy) and Richard; sisters Carmella (Mena) Ciminera, Alexandria (Eleanor) Piatek, Edith Young, and Elizabeth (Liza) Picardi.  In addition to his wife Mary, he is survived by his children Carolee, Julius (Marie), and Christina (Vincent); grandsons Michael Picardi, Thomas and Bryan Quattrocchi;  brother Lester, brothers-in-law Peter (Frances) Truss and William (Dorothy) Truss, and many nieces, nephews and longtime friends. 

Those who knew him say he will be greatly missed.