William “Bill” Cardona, known as “Weasel” and “Tata,” passed away peacefully on March 4, 2025, at the age of 67. Born on January 14, 1958, in Santa Paula, California to Modesto and Maggie Cardona. Bill was a passionate sports enthusiast from an early age, excelling in multiple sports throughout his life. Growing up in Fillmore, California, Bill’s love for sports began in his youth as he played Fillmore Little League and Fillmore Raiders Youth Football. His athletic talent continued through high school, where he graduated from Fillmore High School – Class of 1977. Bill’s high school sports career was marked by his love for basketball, where his speed and jumping ability set him apart. He was also a key player on the Fillmore High School baseball team, leading them to two CIF Championships in 1975 and 1976. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to high school sports, Bill was inducted into the Fillmore High School Sports Hall of Fame in September 2018.
Bill began his career in public service as a cadet at Ventura County Fire Station 27 during his senior year of high school. He then dedicated 30 years of his life to serving as a Ventura County Fire Reserve at Fire Station 27. Bill also worked in manufacturing, first at Wm. L. Morris in the Paint & Body Shop, then at Northrup Grumman and Amgen, where he spent a total of 29 years in this industry.
A devoted family man, Bill married Annette Burgett, and together they raised a beautiful family. He is survived by his wife Annette and their children: Michael Cardona (Jessica), Stephanie Cardona, Kristen Martinez (Rich) and Brittany Halcon (Bobby). Bill was also a proud grandfather to 15 grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Brothers, Sam Cardona (Geneieve), Norbert Riesgo (Stella) and Ronnie Riesgo (Helen). Sisters, Angie Appleton (Steve), Gloria Cardona and Barbara Moreno. God daughters Tracey Cardona and Renee Vargas who loved him dearly.
Bill cherished his role as father, grandfather and great-grandfather, always ensuring that his family was the center of his world. He was preceded in death by his parents Modesto and Maggie Cardona, Brother, Robert Cruz, Sisters, Ruby Riesgo, Madeline Davis, Marla Cervantez, RoseMarie Gallardo, Nephew, Eddie Davis, Niece, Lani Farr and Compa
Art Lugo.
Bill was also involved in his community. He was an active member of the Trout Slayers Fishing Club, where he enjoyed his annual trip to the Eastern Sierra’s. Bill was also an avid sports fan of the LA Dodgers, LA Lakers, Seattle Seahawks, and USC football and basketball. Above all Bill’s most treasured role was being “Tata” to his grandchildren. He was their biggest supporter, attending all their games and cheerleading competitions and making sure they knew how much he loved them. Whenever he left, he would always say, “I Love You More 10-4.”
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, April 4, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Faith Community Church followed by a burial at Bardsdale Cemetery.The Cardona and Riesgo families extend their heartfelt thanks for the outpouring of love and support from family, friends and Bill’s Trout Slayer brothers.
Bill will forever live in our hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. As he wished, There will be no sad tears – only happy ones in his honor.
Rest in Heaven Bill “Weasel” Cardona.
To sign the family’s online guest book please visit our website: www.santapaulafuneralhome.com and locate Bill’s name in “Recent Obituaries”.
Funeral Arrangements are under the direction of the Family Owned & Operated ROBERT REY GARCIA JR FUNERAL SERVICES, SANTA PAULA, CA 805.229.7054.