Paul Cline is the responder in the spotlight this month. We are honoring his service at Cowlitz- Skamania Fire District #7. Paul served on the department for many years, selflessly serving our community. Our deepest sympathy to his family in friends at this time.

Paul Douglas Cline was born on July 10,1951, in Seattle, Washington to Carrol and Dorthy Cline. The eldest of four children, with a father serving in the ministry, started his education at Whitebird grade school, transitioning to Shelly junior high, then finalizing his academics in Goldendale where he graduated from high school. Being certain of his career in teaching he attended Central Washington University, earning a master’s degree in music education. He taught school for two years at Twisp Winthrop high school before transitioning to Woodland High School, where he became a prominent figure to the music program for thirty-one years. He is credited with founding the music organization TEMPO, which has been an essential support system for the entire music program at Woodland. In addition to music, he also played the role for the girls’ softball team for four years.

As a community leader, he offered his services to many organizations and causes. He volunteered as an EMT for thirty-five years and served as 

Captain for the local fire department. His musical talents were administrated in role of choir director at the Woodland Presbyterian Church, followed by worship leader at Pleasant View Community Church. For fifteen years he served as Port Commissioner of Woodland, and even still fulfilling his duty to this city in his final days, attending meetings virtually throughout his illness.

Paul’s legacy is not only of professional accomplishments and community service, but also as a dedicated family man. He was a loving husband of forty-two years to his beloved wife, Cheryl Cline, and a cherished father, to three children, Jeremy, Bryanna and Jessica. An immeasurable joy in his life was being Papa to his six grandchildren, Tiger, Ryker, Karlen, Rogen, Jayden and Myka. He was a dedicated father, adored grandfather, treasured friend and resected community member. He will be missed by all.