CLEARWATER, FL. – Longtime Clearwater City Manager Bill Horne died Saturday of a suspected heart attack, according to a city release.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved City Manager Bill Horne,” said the City Of Clearwater in a statement “Our thoughts are with his wife, Loretta, during this difficult time, as well as other family members.”
Horne led the city as city manager for more than two decades and was looking forward to his retirement on Sept. 3.
A retired U.S. Air Force colonel, he began his career with the city of Clearwater in 1998 as general support services administrator. The next year, he became assistant city manager. In July 2000, he was named interim city manager and then became city manager the following year.
“Yesterday we lost a patriot, mentor, leader, public servant, veteran, and role model. I lost my friend,” said Mayor Frank Hibbard. “Our community was richer for having Bill Horne and today we are poorer for having lost him. His impact in Clearwater and beyond will live on tangibly and in our hearts. Rest In Peace my friend.”
Assistant City Manager Michael Delk will be acting city manager until the city council can take action, which will occur Monday, August 16, 2021.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
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Wonder if he took the vaccine and had a heart attack as a result?