James A. Cline, 77, of Emmaus, died suddenly at his home Jan. 19, 2020. He was the loving husband of JoAnne (Zerbe) Cline, with whom he shared 38 years of marriage. Born in Waynesboro, Franklin County, he was the oldest son of the late Arthur H. Cline and Ethel (Smith) Hogan.

He graduated from Waynesboro High School in 1960 and enlisted in the U.S. Army. He graduated Officer Candidate School in 1968 and was commissioned a captain. He served as a repelling instructor at West Point and a sharpshooter instructor at Infantry School in Fort Benning, Ga., receiving his sharpshooter and marksman badges. He was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division and was proud to have made over 1,100 jumps. He served with honor and valor.

Capt. Cline served as a Special Forces and Force Multiplier during the Vietnam War, serving a total of three years in country. He participated in the attempted rescue of POWs at the Hanoi Hilton and fought in the TET offensive. He founded an orphanage and later turned it over to the Catholic Church. Following his discharge, he worked at Grove Crane in Waynesboro before relocating to Allentown to work for Erie Insurance as a safety engineer and inspector. He retired in 2004 after 25 years of service.

He enjoyed trips to the casinos, traveling in his RV, motorcycling, target shooting and especially fishing when he was able. He was a true “Mr. Fix-it” and could fabricate any tool allowing him to fix a problem.

Known as “Big Jim,” he was a devoted husband and companion, a true soul mate and a generous, sincere friend.

He was a member of the Unami Rod and Gun Club, Mercantile Club of Emmaus, Macungie VFW and DAV.

He is survived by his wife; nephew, Jay and his wife, Donna; great-nephews, Tyler, Parker and Bryce; Carolyn Cline Moore and Joseph Watson, his lifelong best friend. He was predeceased by younger brothers, John and Joseph; stepmother, Isabelle Cline.

Contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, 1117 County Club Road., Camp Hill, 17011.

Interment will be at a later date at the convenience of the family. Arrangements were made by the Bachman, Kulik & Reinsmith Funeral Homes, Emmaus.