William Eugene Pfau

Much-loved husband, father, and Opa, US Army, retired, CW5 William “Bill” Pfau, 75, of Cartersville, Georgia, left this world and embarked on his new great journey on Monday, August 11, 2025.

Born in 1949 in Kittanning, PA, Bill is a 1967 graduate of Franklin Regional High School in Murrysville, PA. Bill attended the Art Institute of Pittsburgh and received an aeronautical degree from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

A highly decorated career US Army veteran of over 30 years, Bill served his country in many capacities, including Vietnam combat soldier, remote sensor operator, paratrooper, Warrant Officer Candidate School Senior TAC, Cobra gunship flight instructor, and 82nd Airborne Aviation safety officer, to name a few.

Bill was a man who loved cars – the faster the better. He recently found racing via Gran Turismo to be the way to race the vehicles he always loved and share the joy and technical side of driving with his granddaughter, Charley. Bill was witty, brave, articulate, and passionate about cars, family, and the pursuit of a weed-free yard. He enjoyed racing, football, car shows, plus various veteran-related events and activities.

Bill was preceded in death by his father, Charles William Pfau, of Shallotte, NC. Earth-bound immediate family include his wife of nearly 52 years, Lynda Pfau of Cartersville, GA; daughter Billie (Bill) Hodan and granddaughter Charley Hodan of Kennesaw, GA; his mother Betty Jean Fisher of Greensburg PA; brothers Donald (Linda) Pfau and Barry Pfau of Fayetteville NC; sister Cheryl (David) Smitely of Jeannette PA, and step-sister Beth (Carl) Stynchula of Wilmington NC. Bill held his family dear, including the many friends he made throughout his life and military career.

A celebration of life will be held in the future. Instead of flowers or gifts, donations can be made in his name to Wounded Warriors or the Gary Sinise Foundation.

May your new wings allow you to continue to fly.