Former Congressman William Clinger passes away; was instrumental in funding for Lock Haven flood protection system

LOCK HAVEN, PA – Word has been received on the passing of William F. Clinger Jr., the former nine-term Pennsylvania Congressman who was instrumental in securing federal funding for the Lock Haven flood protection system. Clinger passed away May 28 in Naples, Florida, where he had resided the last several years. He was 92 years old.

Clinger was first elected in 1978 and served most of Clinton County as the 23rd district representative. Later, he served as the 5th district congressman and that congressional district included all of Clinton County. He decided not to run for reelection in 2006.

Through the 1980s, Clinger fought for the flood protection system, and helped secure a majority of the funding for the $84 million project. The pathway on top of the present levee is named the William Clinger Riverwalk.

Clinger was a native of Warren, and graduated from Johns Hopkins University and received a law degree from the University of Virginia. He served as an officer in the United States Navy.

Mike Flanagan, a former Clinger staff member and now President of the Clinton County Economic Partnership, confirmed that he received an e-mail Saturday noting Clinger’s death. “A true gentleman is the best way I can describe him,” said Flanagan.

Services have yet to be announced.