Col. Thornton Bline, 87, Ocala Florida and formerly of Bellair, Illinois passed away June 17, 2005 at the Estelle's Hospice House in Ocala, Florida.
Born August 22, 1917 in Licking Twp., near Bellair, he was the son of Thornton Chester Bline and Imo Dell (Payne) Bline. Thornton married Bebe "Betty" Strohl. Thornton retired as a Colonel in the United States Air Force. Thornton entered the military in May of 1942, as a Private in the Aviation Program, he was promoted to Captain Army of the United States, February of 1946 serving in World War II. Thornton was very instrumental in many of the improvements at the Robinson, Illinois Airport over the years. He also served as Crawford County Democratic Chairman for several years. He was affiliated with the Methodist Church.
Survivors include his wife, Bebe"Betty" Bline; son and daughter-in-law, Thornton Alan and Judy Bline; daughter, Karen Bline; three grandsons, Mark Bline, Patrick Bline and Jonathon Bline.
A private graveside service was held in the Bellair Cemetery with Rev. Tom Akers officiating.