Robert "Chico" Pistono's Memorial

Robert "Chico" Pistono passed away peacefully on September 24, 2024, at the Davis Hospice Center in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Chico was born on January 28, 1941, in Ogden, Utah, to Mario Robert and Mary Kathryn (Kantor) Pistono. He spent his early years in the coal-mining frontier towns of Elko and Kemmerer, Wyoming, before the family moved to Green River. It was there that he acquired the nickname “Chico,” much to the dismay of his parents. He graduated from Green River High School in 1958. He continued his education at Eastern Montana College on a football and basketball scholarship, eventually earning a degree in Biology from Montana State University. During college, he also served in the Army National Guard.
Chico’s first job after college was as a ranger in Yellowstone National Park, a role that marked the beginning of his lifelong dedication to wildlife conservation. He went on to work for the Wyoming Game & Fish Department for 36 years as a fish biologist. Over his distinguished career, Chico worked at the Storey and Clark’s Fork fish hatcheries, served as a habitat biologist in Lander, and eventually became the assistant chief of fisheries in Cheyenne.
A passionate advocate for stream habitat improvement, Chico’s efforts significantly enhanced trout fishing in Wyoming. He was instrumental in protecting the endangered Wyoming toad and securing in-stream flow water rights for the state. His work touched nearly every river and stream across the state, improving habitats for generations of anglers. His love for fishing extended well beyond state borders, taking him to Alaska and Baja, Mexico.
Chico was an active participant in Wyoming’s political landscape, particularly through his leadership roles with the Wyoming Public Employees Association. Known for his ability to work across party lines, he championed both workers' rights and the interests of outdoor enthusiasts. His involvement with organizations like the Wyoming Outdoor Council and Trout Unlimited allowed him to continue his work protecting the state’s natural resources. Chico was also passionate about coaching Little League and Babe Ruth baseball for over a decade in Lander.
Chico was preceded in death by his parents, Mario and Mary Kathryn Pistono; his younger brother, Richard; and his sister-in-law, Judy. He is survived by the love of his life, Sandra Anderson Pistono of Cheyenne; his eldest son, Mike, wife Dominique, and beloved granddaughter, Madeleine, of Littleton, Colorado; his youngest son, Matteo, and wife Monica, of Encinitas, California; and his nephews, Troy of Green River, Paul of Houston, and Craig of Denver.
A memorial service will be held at Schrader’s Funeral Home on Friday, October 4 at 2 pm.
In lieu of flowers, Chico requested donations be made to the The Wildlife Fund, www.wildlifefund.com/donate.