Anthony P. “Tony” Picardo, 82 of Medford formerly of the North End of Boston died Tuesday after a long illness in the E. N. Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford.

Tony was born in Boston, and lived many years in Medford. He was the son of the late Philomena (Anzalone) and Domenico Picardo. He was an Inspector with the Department of Defense for 38 years and retired in 1987. Tony served during the Korean War in the U.S. Air Force from 1952 to 1956. During his service in the Air Force he was responsible for establishing communication systems on small South Pacific Islands.

Beloved husband of 52 years to the late Francine A. (Schiavone) Picardo . Devoted father of Susan Hairston of Somerville, Lauren Greene of Vermont and Paul Picardo of Wakefield. Loving grandfather of Chantel Holmes, Brennan Hairston and Tianna Hairston. Brother of Louise Castaldo, Lena Picardo both of Boston, Domenic Picardo of Medford and the late Anna Sinnonelli, Angelo, Jerry and Mario Picardo.

Funeral from the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., MEDFORD Saturday at 10 AM followed by a funeral mass celebrated in St. Clement Church, 71 Warner St., Medford, at 11 AM. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend. Visiting hours Friday 4 - 8 pm. Services will conclude with burial at Woodlawn Cemetery, Everett.

As an expression of sympathy memorial contributions may be sent in Anthony’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association, 480 Pleasant St., Watertown, MA 02472.