Clifford Frederic Behling, 76, of Belvidere, died Thursday, February 24, 2011 in his home surrounded by his family after a long illness. Born February 26, 1934 in Belvidere; son of Frederick "Fritz" and Frieda (Rutz) Behling. Faithfully served our country in the U.S. Army. Married Lois Rabe on February 12, 1961 with Rev. Arnold Gierke of Immanuel Lutheran Church performing the ceremony. Worked for Woodward Governor for 39 years. Member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Aircraft Owner's and Pilot's Assoc., Experimental Aircraft Assoc., and 25 Year Club at Woodward Governor. Cliff earned his private pilot's license in 1967 and spent many years flying with fellow pilot and son Chris. He had a passion for evergreen trees and planted more than 1000 trees by hand over the years. Enjoyed fishing, playing golf and was involved with his grandchildren and their sporting events. He and his brother-in-law Bob Burkhalter went on many trips together to Alaska and around the Great Lakes. The family would like to express thanks to Dr's Einhorn, Hiser, Harner and Myers, Tammy Boxleitner, special nurse and daughter-in-law Becky, Swedish American Heart Hospital Nursing staff and to Passages Hospice for all their kind and compassionate care.Survivors include his loving wife Lois, sons David (Becky) of Belvidere, Steven (Carol) of Rockford and Christopher (Angie) of Loves Park, grandchildren Alex, Andie, Grant, Nicholas, Emily, Anthony and Christian, brother Harold (Ruth Ann) of Caledonia, several nieces, nephews and cousins. Predeceased by his parents, 2 brothers-in-law and 1 sister-in-law.

Memorials may be given to the American Heart Association or the Poplar Grove Vintage Wings and Wheels Museum.