Neal Edward Cline

Neal, the wildly eccentric Cline, passed away after gathering 77 years of remarkable experiences. Widely read and eclectic in his interests and hobbies, he was the one in the corner at all the dinner parties who didn’t say much at first. However, if you were bold enough, or lucky enough, to engage him in conversation on almost any topic, you would most likely learn new and unique details, both surprising and interesting.

Educated entirely in Catholic schools, he finished his BS in Mathematics at Notre Dame University. Shortly thereafter, he discovered his lifelong love in the UCLA/JPL Department of Geophysics and Space Science, applying the then new power of computers to space flight data analysis. Working with a variety of teams, he supported projects such as Galileo and Voyager. His most recent work involved virtualizing the earliest space flight data and software for access by modern computers.

This otherworldly fascination, however, could only hold his full attention for just under 35 years. At the wonderful age of 54, he made the bold decision to semi-retire, devoting the other half of his attention to the earthly passions of beach volleyball and surfing.

Ever growing in service to those around him, he devoted his time equally among: Space Science, supporting his aging parents, senior computer guru to family and associates, an ever expanding circle of beach volleyball friends, jazz and classical music concerts, an expanding record collection, and surf trips to his beloved Terramar. Remarkably, he was able to figure out a way to give 100% to each of them. A true genius!

All of us who knew and loved him will miss our Renaissance Man.

Luyben Dilday Mortuary (562) 425-6401