Noted national- and world-level tournament director Bill Schoder of Tampa FL died Aug. 28 in Tampa FL.

An instantly recognizable figure in the tournament world – Schoder was retired military with an imposing form and bald head – he quickly earned the nickname “Kojak” from his resemblance to the tough-guy police character played by actor Telly Savalas.

Born in New York, Schoder was a graduate of Queens College where he joined ROTC, beginning his long career of service to his country.

Schoder served for 23 years in the U.S. Air Force as a fighter pilot reaching the rank of lieutenant colonel with tours of duty in Vietnam, Taiwan, the Ivory Coast, Panama and several U.S. bases. He was awarded many decorations including the Distinguished Service Medal, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star and the Legion of Merit.

After retiring from the Air Force, Schoder pursued his other passion – bridge – as a national tournament director for the ACBL and for the World Bridge Federation. He contributed columns to the Bridge Bulletin, Florida Bridge News and the Gold Coast Bridge News Trumpet.

Schoder served as chief tournament director for Central American and Caribbean Bridge Federation and was the trainer for China’s tournament directing staff.

He served as chief director for the WBF beginning in 1987. Schoder was also a classical pianist, and his Steinway piano was among his most prized possessions. His careers in the military and the bridge world allowed him to travel to many different parts of the globe and to become familiar with many different cultures. Bill spoke several languages fluently, including English, German, French and Spanish.

Schoder is survived by two children and a host of grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, nephews and nieces.