It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Alan Glenn Cline on May 28, 2025, at the age of 68 after a three-year battle with cancer. Al was a devoted husband, father, brother-in-law, friend and one of the finest men around. He will be greatly missed.
Al is survived by Cindy, his wife of 47 years; his sons, Matthew (Samantha) and Gregory; his siblings-in-law, Bill and Karen Napolitano, Kellie Napolitano, Dan and Jill Napolitano, and Rick and Rose Knight. He is also survived by his numerous nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews and many cherished friends. He was predeceased by his parents Clifford and Vada, and his daughter-in-law, Melanie.
Born on December 9, 1956, in Washington, D.C., Al was raised in Lanham, MD. After graduating from DuVal High School in 1974, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and trained as a jet-engine mechanic. He spent 5 years on active duty, stationed at Langley Air Force Base. After his tour, he joined the D.C. Air National Guard with the 113th Tactical Fighter Wing at Andrews Air Force Base. He rose to the rank of Senior Master Sergeant, ending his career as the Engine Shop Chief before retiring in 2003. His ingenuity and leadership gained the admiration of his coworkers. He was recognized as someone ready and willing to tackle any challenge. Al was proud of his status as a Veteran. Whenever someone thanked him for his service, his response was, “I loved my job! The pleasure was mine!” Never one to sit still, Al continued working after his retirement as the maintenance man at Ascension Catholic Church in Bowie. He applied the same willingness, ingenuity and problem solving to improving every aspect of the church facilities.
As much as he was known as a handy-man extraordinaire, Al’s true vocation was as a family man. He married his high school sweetheart, Cindy, on May 13, 1978 and together they built a life focused on family and faith. In fact, it was his strong faith and his loving family that sustained him throughout his illness. He was an amazing father to his two sons, Matt and Greg and one of his most treasured experiences was reaching the point where his adult sons were also his friends. Al shared his love of sports with his sons-even getting them to follow NASCAR. He spent years in bowling, softball and golf leagues. Throughout his life, and especially in retirement, Al enjoyed time on the beach and traveling with family and good friends.
In every aspect of his life, Al was an exemplary good person. He strived to leave every situation and every life he encountered a little better, a little smoother, a little happier. He was known for his kindness and generosity with family, friends and anyone in need. Whenever someone needed help, Al was there. When something needed fixing, he was the one to call. He often took it upon himself to fix things and fashion improvements without being asked. He leaves a legacy not only of love and friendship, but also of skilled workmanship on display throughout the homes of his family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to one of Al’s favorite charities, the Saint Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org/donate
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1 Entry
Kari Wijsmuller Aldridge
June 2, 2025
Before I even met Al, I knew that Al and Cindy had to be compassionate family-oriented people - it was clearly shown through their son Greg who is one of the kindest people I know. Greg married my daughter Melanie and it was through that perfect union that I got to know Al and Cindy better. When Greg bought his house, his parents spent many hours helping him fix things, Al was the handy man of all trades and Cindy "loved" to paint. She didn´t like removing wallpaper, but she nevertheless took on that chore as well. There are still many sticky notes by the electric panel that Al placed there to help navigate the electrical system.
Three years ago, when Al was diagnosed with cancer, Melanie cried often and called me to talk about her sorrow.
Last year, on June 3rd Melanie passed away unexpectedly due to undiagnosed natural causes. Cindy and Al, spent days with all of us at Greg´s house. Both of them worked on the yard and in the house. My siblings also joined in to get it ready for the influx of visitors.
We all got to know Al much better. The obituary describes him perfectly. A quiet, kind, generous man and a best friend to Cindy, Grag and Matt. My siblings and children were always asking how he was doing during this past year. He left a permanent impression on them and they very much cared for him and his recovery. Sadly, that did not happen. He bravely fought that battle.
For me personally, his legacy will continue through my son-in-law Greg.
With sympathy and much love,
Kari and Gerald
Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreYou may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read moreThese free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read moreSome basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more