Colonel Joseph F. Kline, United States Marine Corps (Ret.), 85, of Rockville Centre, a much-loved husband, father, grandfather, son, and brother, passed away peacefully on April 22, 2026, with his family by his side. He was a distinguished Marine aviator who enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1960. A seasoned combat pilot, he flew nearly 700 missions during the Vietnam War. Over a career spanning three decades, he held numerous leadership roles, including command of Marine helicopter squadrons HMLA-369 and HML-268, as well as key operational assignments in Okinawa, Vietnam, Central America, and the United States. 

He also served as Deputy Director for Operations at United States Southern Command and later as the first Inspector General for United States Special Operations Command. His service was recognized with numerous awards, including the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Distinguished Flying Cross. 

He is remembered for his leadership and steadfast commitment to the Marines he led and mentored. Joseph loved sharing the great outdoors with his family, reconnecting with his “Pop a Smoke” mates, his Marine Corps brothers, and his golfing friends. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Joan; his children Kathleen (Brian), Christopher (Mary), and Patrick (Cindy); his brother Jerry (Laura), and was preceded in death by his son Michael (Flo) and sister Marianne. 

A memorial service will be held on May 5 at Serenity Meadows Memorial Park, Funeral Home & Crematory, with a viewing beginning at 10:30 a.m. and the service at 11:30 a.m. Inurnment at Sarasota National Cemetery will immediately follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.