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Paul Picerni Obituary
Picerni's daughter Maria Atkinson-Bates says her father died Jan. 12 at Palmdale Regional Medical Center north of Los Angeles after suffering a heart attack at his home in the desert community of Llano. The death was first reported in the Los Angeles Times.
Besides his role as agent Lee Hobson on "The Untouchables" from 1960 to 1963, Picerni starred in "House of Wax" with Vincent Price in 1953. It was the first 3-D movie produced by a major studio. His other films included "The Scalphunters" in 1968 and "Airport" in 1970.
Picerni appeared in TV shows including "Gunsmoke," "Kojak," "T.J. Hooker" and "Perry Mason."
Copyright © 2011 The Associated Press
102 Entries
James Klemens
May 16, 2025
I'm writing to share a special story about my father, Frank Klemens and Paul Picerni. During World War II, my father served as a bombardier navigator in the CBI theater alongside his close friend, Paul Picerni. They bonded over their shared love of entertaining troops, with my father playing piano and singing, while Paul told jokes and acted as MC.
After the war, Paul invited my father to join him in California to pursue opportunities in Hollywood. Although my father chose to return to Pittsburgh, he always cherished his friendship with Paul and enjoyed watching him thrive in the entertainment industry.
I'd love to hear from anyone who might know more about Paul Picerni's career or have any connections to this era.
Best regards,
James Klemens
February 10, 2025
What a great actor rip
Doreen McNary (Pierce)
May 12, 2019
We were next-door neighbors of the Picerni Family in Reseda, CA. I played with several of his children when they were living there. My sister, Carolyn, is still living in our house. I was amazed that anyone could have so many children in one family when I was little, then when the Picerni family moved to Tarzana, another family moved into their house, and they had MORE children! I never lacked playmates. I remember that Mr. Picerni liked Limburger cheese--really stinky cheese--we could smell it all the way over to our house!! Lots of good Italian cooking going on over there.
John Rudzianski, Sr.
July 26, 2017
I am currently reading Mr. Picerni's book. As I read, it as if he is talking to me with that wonderful voice of his. I have seen most of his movies and of course the Untouchables!
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Deborah Eggleston
May 30, 2015
My husbands Uncle good friends with Paul.I met him on several ocassions.
He gave a toast at their anniversary party also.
Uncle Ray and Auntie Gladys..I'm sure no last name is necessacery.
October 17, 2014
One of his best films was "The Young Philadelphians."
May 4, 2014
i came across The Untouchables again on METV and wanted to write and tell Mr. Picerni him how much i enjoyed him from the original showing of the series; i was saddened to hear of his passing. i always loved that smile of his, and how happy he seemed to be acting: he always looked like he was having a great time! Except, of course, when he got arrested on Hawaii Five-O! Sorry I never got the chance to write him and tell him personally. Tracey, Dayton, OH
Bob Farrell
March 20, 2014
I loved the Untouchables. Your Dad was my favorite.
A fan
Bob Farrell
carmella benedetti
February 27, 2014
so sorry for this lost i still watch him on me tv every night very hand some guy.
Minnie Beltran
February 12, 2014
You were one of my favoriteactors. I loved to see you in the untouchables. You and robert stack were great. I still watch reruns on MeTv
February 3, 2014
I was just a kid but I seen him in corona ny.
I live on the same street. P.S.14 school.
I remember him and all the teaches new him and
remember him.We were so proud to know him.
God Bless him..
Raza Burgee
October 15, 2013
I met your dad in the 70s when I first came to LA at Universal Studios and stood with he and Lola Albright talking about the great days of TV and he was so nice to me as was she although I was not at that time connected to the Industry as I am now. I loved the movie he did with Paul Newman, Barbara Rush when he was a lawyer named Louie Dinette...Bless the Picerni family. Raza Burgee
Kenneth Nash
July 18, 2011
To the Family, just heard of your loss. Am deeply sorrowed by the news. Will rememberr Paul and the family's trip to N.J. many years ago. And the visit that we had with you. Again, our deepest sympathies.
Love,
Your N.J. cousins
Please keep in touch!!!
Buck Nelson
June 4, 2011
Paul was one of the good guys.
John 3: 16
Linda Sasada (Hoffard)
March 3, 2011
To the Picerni family - my condolences on the loss of your father. Gemma - I hope you are doing well. Would love to talk to you.
February 6, 2011
He was a personal friend of my mothers in the early 70's in Mexico City. A very nice man. I still remember him.
Mary Dennis-Goyette
February 3, 2011
Hi Gemma, we were friends in school together at Our Lady of Grace! My sister is Janet Dennis, went to school with Maria. I just want you to know I am thinking of you and your family. Your dad was not only a very talented man, but a very good man who raised a very special family. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless You Gemma.
keith wren
January 28, 2011
my deepest sympathy to the family, he was a fantastic actor, his autograph and photo will be treasured in my collection . i loved him with vincent price. please accept my deepest regrets
fred erickson
January 28, 2011
i remember u man. u were good!
Ruth Dahlstrom
January 28, 2011
To the Picerni Family:
I enjoyed his many performances on TV and in film, but especially enjoyed his autobiography.
What a wonderful family man he was. I know you are comforted by his long and well-lived life, and will continue to be comforted by many good memories.
God bless you all.
January 28, 2011
Dear Picerni Family,
Paul was a great actor, truly he will be missed by all his fans and friends. Yet it is always good to remember our Creator at this time of grief, who says at (Psalm 34:18) "He is near to all those who are broken at heart and crushed in spirit he saves." May your memories of Paul bring you a measure of comfort at this time.
Yvonne, NJ
Victoria
January 28, 2011
rest in peace'Paul'
Renato Lima
January 28, 2011
To the family of Mr. Picerni,
May God bless you all at these difficult times.
Ray Lima
January 28, 2011
Wonderful actor, best remembered by me for "The Untouchables." Very good show, enhanced by a very talented actor. May he rest in peace.
melody barwick
January 28, 2011
Paul was very gifted and talented, he knew his craft well..the Untouchables was a wonderful show..i admit i watched it to see Paul...thank you for sharing with the world a gem...
Gayle Burleson
January 28, 2011
My condolences to the family of Mr. Picerni I grew up watching him and he was a great actor that could also be funny. I am sure he and Mr. Gordan are having a chuckle right now. Rest in peace Mr. Picerni.
Richard
January 27, 2011
Enjoyed his part as one of the guards on ALCATRAZ - THE WHOLE SHOCKING STORY. He played the part, as I remember, as Ernie Lageson. Also remember him from THE UNTOUCHABLES TV show. Sorry for your loss.
Mary Jones
January 27, 2011
As a young girl I watched "The Untouchables every week like clock work. I was glad to see Mr. Picerni's roll as Lee Hobson go in to action. He was very good. Now he will be greatly missed.
Micheala
January 27, 2011
I met Paul at a friends home on Christmas of 1990. His friend also played on the Untouchables. Though it was only a one time meeting, I never forgot his wit and charm
shirley
January 27, 2011
To the Picerin Family
Please know that your lost is shared by Mr. Picerni's fans. May your memories be a source of comfort to you during this difficult time.
Randy
January 27, 2011
As a kid, I remember watching Paul, as Lt. Burt Fisher, in "Torpedo Run". During a tense moment when his submarine is attacking, Paul delivers the line "And they're racing at Rockingham!" as the torpedo is on its way to the target. Great line! I also remember Paul as Valentino in "To Hell and Back". Rest in peace Paul, you brought joy to a young kid watching the 4 o'clock movie on WOR 9 after school.
January 27, 2011
I have enjoyed watching Paul on TV and in movies. I thought he was funny sometimes, played his roles well and handsome. My prayers are with his family.
Morton, West Palm Beach, FL
January 27, 2011
To the Picerni Family and Friends,
I am so sorry for the loss of a family treasure such as Mr.Picerni. In this most difficult time I hope you all can find pleasure from all the many wonderful memories he must have made over the years.
Psalms 34:18-"God is near to those broken at heart..."
P.S.-He was a outstanding actor and I enjoyed his work.
The Grant Family
Chuck Shea
January 27, 2011
Another great character actor has left us and again all i can say is thank you for sharing your wonderful talent with us and for all the wonderful memories you gave us.
January 27, 2011
i first saw mr.picerni at the l.a. rams games back in the 50's.he sang with the band during breaks and at half time.what a real gentleman!
patt squicciarini
January 27, 2011
God Bless Mr. Picerni...thank you thank you for years of entertainment and sharing your talent~Your charm, good looks, humor, and talent gave us all years of enjoyment. I am glad you had a long life with your beautiful family. God Bless you and your family.
Bill Anderson
January 27, 2011
Another very cool cast member of "The Untouchables" has left us. All my childhood heroes and villians are sadly leaving us. Mr Picerni was a genuine, likeable guy....Mr Truth and Justice!
I wish TV today was like the good old days. I will miss you! Rest in peace.
Robert McMillan
January 27, 2011
Thank-you for all the wonderful memories you have left us with by knowing and performing your craft to the best of your ability. Eternal rest grant unto Paul, O' Lord & may your perpetual light shine upon him. May Paul rest in peace. Amen.
Virginia Hall
January 26, 2011
Although I didn't remember Mr. Pacerni's name, I certainly remember this handsome actor in many TV programs and "The Untouchables"! Our remarkable character actors literally MAKE the movie or tv show work with their great acting! Sad to hear of his passing.
Cindy Gold
January 26, 2011
Paul was a very handsome actor but also made the roles he played very real people. I am sure you will miss him alot as will his fans.
Dave Phillips
January 26, 2011
I grew up watching this show and Paul Picerni. Another part of our life is now gone.
Larry Boyd
January 26, 2011
I'll always remember Paul as one of TV's good guys. Wish there were more people like him both on and off screen.
edna van damme
January 26, 2011
you was a very good player you will be sadly missed by all
SUSAN OZIAS
January 26, 2011
LITTLE BY LITTLE GOD IS TAKING AWAY THE BESTS IN TV...HISTORY FROM THE OLD DAYS!
IT HAS BEEN ALONG JOURNEY & JUSTS WISHED THE OLD DAYS WERE STILL HERE FOR TV!!!!
SOME PEOPLE JUSTS STAND OUT AND SAY NOTHING....& HANDSOME IS ONLY THE WORD FOR ACTORS LIKE PAUL!!! MAY ALL THE MEMORIES STAY WITHIN' US!! BUGGS'OF K.CITY,KANSAS
Kathleen Carcione
January 26, 2011
Boy did I have a crush on your dad when he was on the Untouchables. Others may have had crushes on Robert Stack but for me, your dad was the best. I have thought about him many times over the years and wondered how he was doing. He will be in my prayers.
January 26, 2011
Thanks for the memories Mr Picemrni,a job well done.Now hes on the bigest screen of all,and it plays forever.
Newzpaperz Hill
January 26, 2011
I was a great fan!
God Is
Les Breese
January 26, 2011
Paul played his role on "The Untouchables" with such skill and understated conviction, and it was his talent that helped make this series so popular with its fans. My sincerest condolences to his family, friends, and fellow fans.
January 26, 2011
God Bless
January 26, 2011
WITH MANY CONDOLENCES TO THE PICERNI FAMILY.IS.61:2 ATLANTA,GA.
A. S.
January 26, 2011
Maria,
You have my deepest sympathies. While many may say "rest in peace", the actual truth is that your Dad is at peace because Ecclesiates 9:5 says "For the living are conscious that they will die; but as for the dead, they are conscious of nothing at all,..." So your Dad is not conscious of anything which means no suffering. The great news is that Almighty God will raise our loved ones from death back to life on earth with us. When you have a moment, please read the promise at Daniel 12:2 and Matthew 5:5.
PAUL PEDDLE
January 26, 2011
R.I.P. PAUL
Lillian
January 26, 2011
With deepest sympathy to the Picerni family. May the thought at Job 33:25 give you comfort in knowing that Paul will return to the days of his youthful vigor. A grand reunion is promised by our Creator to restore His original purpose of an earth without the infirmities of old age, war and suffering - Ps 37:29.
Bill Falls
January 26, 2011
Sincere condolences to the Picerni and Cullity families. His photo and special greetings hang on my wall. Sorry I never got to play bocce with Paul.
Linda Jackson
January 26, 2011
I was sadden to hear of Mr. Picerni's passing. He was a very talented actor and a very handsome man. I enjoyed The Untouchables and all the other parts he portrayed over the years. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Matt McGrath
January 26, 2011
My condolences to Mr. Picerni's family. He was a fine actor whom I remember not only for his work on "The Untouchables" but also "House of Wax" and "The Young Philadelphians". God Bless.
jan farmer
January 26, 2011
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Loreen Reed
January 26, 2011
Family of Paul Picerni,
I really enjoyed Paul and Robert Stack on the untouchables. Both Handsome! May knowing others care give you all measure of comfort. God is with those who are broken at heart and those who are crushed in spirit He saves.
Throw all YOUR anxiety upon him, because he cares for YOU.(1 Peter 5:7)
B.S.
January 26, 2011
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Daniel
January 26, 2011
Even though many might have not remembered his name , everyone knew his face and that he was a credit to his profession. He will be missed ....
Dolon Peete
January 26, 2011
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
EH
January 26, 2011
My condolences to the family in your time of sorrow and may God continue to give you peace as you rely on him. Psalms 34:18
C Phillips
January 26, 2011
My condolence to Maria and family. Loved your dad in the "Untouchables" and his appearances in all the other shows, they were all favorites of mine growing up. May you find encouragement in reading about the wonderful hope for those that have died at John 5:28,29 and 11:38-44.
January 26, 2011
Our family knew the Picerni family from Our Lady of Grace church and school back in the late 50's and 60's. I believe he had eight children. They were a very close family. Paul was a great actor and a loving father. I My heart goes out to all of his family. I will keep all of them in my prayers. Janet (Dennis) von Schwedler
Ms "GG" Bigrigg
January 26, 2011
Heartfelt condolences to Mr Paul Picerni's family.
Like most female fans, I would always watch and admire him in all his works.
May the Good Lord give all his family
strength to carry on in this difficult sad time. RIP.
Sincerely,
Ms "GG" Bigrigg
Richard Morgan
January 25, 2011
You and Robert Stack has always been my favorite I still watch you DVDs and enjoy them. On behalf of the Morgan family our condolence goes out to you and your family.
Stephen Raulston
January 25, 2011
God's Speed to the Picerni family with healing your wounds and easing your pain. Paul was such an underrated actor yet I am not sharing anything as you knew him best! I find it very touching he got his younger brother Charlie started in the business back in the early 1960s. The best to you and your family.
Mike Nuciglio
January 25, 2011
May God have him enter into his kingdom. I've enjoyed him so much in the untouchables and was proud of his Italian success. God be with
his family.
The Nuciglio Family
Nancy Lindgren (Ettelson)
January 25, 2011
In high school I became friends with Nicci Picerni (Paul's daughter) through my friend Marie Smith. I hung out at the Picerni home many times. Paul was always a kind, funny and interesting host. I'm a big fan of his movies and TV shows, especially his role in the Young Philadelphians. My thoughts and prayers are with his wonderful family.
Joy Dollar
January 25, 2011
I don't think I ever knew his name...but I would know his face anywhere! So, Paul, I want to say that I always enjoyed you in anything I ever saw you play in. You ALWAYS stood out as an actor, a REAL person. I know it was a "part" to play, but you were so believable. I always thought you such a handsome man, with a beautiful smile. I will miss seeing you, but can always see you in the movies or old tv shows. Thanks for being such a believable actor. God bless your family.
Peggy Morisen
January 25, 2011
What shame, I had such a crush on him. My condolences to the family.
January 25, 2011
I remember him well on the Untouchables. Rest in peace, Paul. Sympathies to his family.
Don A.
January 25, 2011
Loved him as "Valentino" in To Hell and Back with Audie Murphy!
jim Sievers
January 25, 2011
Paul was a real actor who entertained everyone with the role he played in the untouchables and in movies. God bless
Patricia Parke
January 25, 2011
...when I was 12 years old in 1956 I lived in Coronado, California. Mr. Picerni was making a movie there. A lot of kids hung around the "shoot" watching a film being made. Mr. Picerni asked to borrow my bike to go to a store to get some smokes. I was thrilled and I have never forgotten him since.
Thank you Paul for your kindness that day. RIP and my prayers are for your wonderful family.....
Alan Catz
January 25, 2011
My condolences to his family. A lot more people have heard of, and recognize, this fine actor's name/face, than perhaps you (or he) could ever imagine; wonderfully intense portrayals. Eternal rest, Paul...Alan
January 25, 2011
One of the best and great character actors.He could play any type actor.You will be missed Paul,may you rest in peace.
Mickey Cafaro
January 25, 2011
One of the best and great character actors.He could play any type of actor.You will be missed Paul,may you rest in peace.
January 25, 2011
in 1962 you were good enough to give my wife a m.s. suffer a great moment in her life god bless you jack bonura
Robert Martin
January 25, 2011
My favorite movies that he was in were Breakthrough and To Hell and Back. Both WWII movies. I enjoyed both the characters he portrayed.
January 25, 2011
I still see Paul every night here in Chicago. I really loved his acting. He will be missed. May God continue to bless his family. Joyce Parks, Chicago, IL
Ed & Janie Cullity
January 25, 2011
To the family: so sorry for your loss.
R Golay
January 25, 2011
To the the family of Paul Picerni - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow, I know that Paul will be missed by many.
Sharon
January 25, 2011
To the family of Paul Picerni,
I am sorry for your loss. I would like to express my condolences. May you find comfort in his memories and in God's promise to be reunited with our loved ons once again. John 5:28,29
January 25, 2011
I deeply enjoyed your father in the untouchables and the house of wax.As you will see he brought a lot of joy to many of us that never met him. God bless you and the entire family. Ellen K.. Whitman Mass
January 25, 2011
Honestly, did not know his name,but so many times I enjoyed his looks and acting. Thanks!
Nancy Janney Marr
Steeler Fan in Orange County, CA
January 25, 2011
They don't make them like that no more.
God bless
Jimmy Fitzgerald
Columbus, GA
Teresa Sexton
January 25, 2011
I remember you on the Untouchables ! and when you played in anything else I would always know you right off , what a great legacy you have left all of us . You will be missed what a great actor !
Mary Jeffers
January 25, 2011
Remembering Paul Picerni: As I think of you, I am hearing the memorable theme to "The Untouchables". It was such a great show. It is not being rerun in North Texas, but I hear it is shown in East Texas. I think Mr. Picerni was also untilized as a stuntman? May you rest in peace.
barbara chapman
January 25, 2011
What a very handsome man. I fell in love with Mr. Picerni when I saw him in the house of wax. so so handsome.
John F. Perrelli
January 25, 2011
Thank you Paul. I remember your appearances on many of my favorite TV shows. God bless you and your family.
January 25, 2011
Paul was, in my opinion, a very good actor and never received enough recognition for it. My smpathy to his loved ones and friends.
Elizabeth Heape
January 25, 2011
I remember, my sympathy to the Picerni family.
Carol Richard
January 25, 2011
I loved watching you act ,you were my favorite .
January 25, 2011
I remember Paul very well through his movies over the years. He always seemed to be a wonderful role model and his real character rose above the person he portrayed.
Jim Dooher
DeWitt, NY
January 25, 2011
I remember Paul through the years in many of his movies. He always seemed to me like a role model and his real character always rose above the persons he portrayed. May he rest eternally in peace with God.
Jim Dooher
Marsha Turner
January 25, 2011
You were a joy to watch and my sympathy goes to your family. May you have peace.
MIRIAM PETREE
January 25, 2011
I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF THE FAMILY
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