William A. DePalo Jr., "Biff" a devoted husband, father, esteemed educator, and soldier, passed away on September 15, 2026, at the age of 85. An extraordinarily forward-looking individual, William always had a plan. After earning his bachelor's degree from NMSU, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army. His distinguished 28-year military career included various Infantry and Special Operations assignments, as well as two tours in Vietnam, where he was awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star for Valor, and two Purple Hearts. He retired from the US Army with the rank of Colonel.

William also earned a master's degree in Latin American History in 1971 and attended both the US Army Command and General Staff College and the Inter-American Defense College. Following his retirement, he became an active triathlete and also went on to earn a PhD in Latin American Studies, which led to his role as an adjunct instructor at UNM until 2001. Never one to slow down, William earned his second-degree black belt in Hapkido in 2015 and served as an instructor for several years.

William always looked for what was "next" in life. Mental barriers were inconsequential and he was always excited by the prospects of change rather than deterred by it, embracing challenges head-on and conquering anything he set his mind to until the very end.

He is survived by Diana, wife of six years; brother, Glen; sister, Kathy; niece Karie; sons, Lee, Chris and Brian; daughter, Katherine; grandchildren, Kyle, Sarah, Gavin, Cyrus; great grandson Wesley.

A viewing for immediate family will be held on Monday, September 28th from 1000-1100 followed by a memorial service and light lunch from 1100-1300, at French Funerals & Cremations, 7121 Wyoming Blvd NE. Internment will occur October 1st at 1315 at Santa Fe National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers please donate to Roadrunner Food Bank.