William Bronder, a talented American film and television actor, was born on June 12, 1930, and passed away on May 6, 2015. Prior to embarking on his Hollywood career in the 1960s, Bronder served in the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division, showcasing his versatility and dedication to his country.
Throughout his extensive career, spanning over three decades, Bronder appeared in a total of seven films, approximately 50 television episodes, and eight television movies. He was particularly adept at portraying rough, working-class characters, earning him a reputation as a master of character roles.
One of Bronder's most notable roles was that of Milo Pressman, the unfriendly junkyard owner, in Rob Reiner's 1986 film Stand by Me, starring Wil Wheaton and River Phoenix. His other notable films include Flush (1982),Cannery Row (1982),Yes, Giorgio (1982),Best Seller (1987),the short film Tummy Trouble (1989),and Return to Me (2000),which marked his final role as Wally Jatczak.
Bronder's television credits are equally impressive, with appearances in numerous series throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Some of his notable television roles include Marcus Welby, M.D., The Streets of San Francisco, Police Story, Knots Landing, Hill Street Blues, CHiPs, and MacGyver.
In addition to his acting career, Bronder was an avid pigeon enthusiast and a Hall of Fame member of the FVC San Fernando Valley Pigeon Club. He was married to his loving wife Tona from 1964 until his passing in 2015, and they had four beautiful children together.