West Manatee Fire Rescue’s Station 1 is brand new — and newly dedicated to the late Robert Kline.
At an open house event Oct. 8, the fire-rescue service dedicated the newly constructed station at 407 67 St. W., Bradenton, to the former fire marshal for his 30 years of service to the station that formerly occupied the property.
Kline worked at the station 1962-92, and continued to frequent the station and offer assistance until his death in 2013 at the age of 87. He was the station’s first full-time firefighter employee.
During his 30-year career, Kline held the titles of firefighter, lieutenant, captain, and assistant chief before retiring as fire marshal.
In 1985, the fire district honored Kline by naming a firetruck after him.
Kline lived his life in Bradenton, with the exception of seven years he served in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
“Bob Kline was instrumental in the establishment and growth of the Westside as well as the West Manatee Fire Rescue District,” said WMFR fire captain Chris Shepard in July when he proposed the dedication. “Dedicating Fire Station No. 1 will honor the service he provided to the community.”