Hollywood Park mayor dies on S. Texas ranch

City Hall flags in Hollywood Park in northern Bexar County were at half-staff Tuesday, marking the death of Mayor William “Bill” Bohlke.

Bohlke, who won election this May in his first run for public office, died Monday night on his ranch in South Texas.

Councilwoman Sudie Sartor, who knew Bohlke for about a decade, said most council members were alerted to the news Monday night.

She said it appeared Bohlke was attacked by an animal on his ranch and died before anyone could come to his aid.

“He was just a wonderful man — and there aren't many people I can truly say that about,” Sartor said. “He brought a lot of stability to our council when he came on and he will be greatly missed.”

Sartor said a council meeting has been scheduled for Sept. 8 at which members will discuss who will be appointed to take over. Steve Phillips, mayor pro tem, is acting mayor until then.

“He was absolutely awesome,” Phillips said of Bohlke. “He was gentle, very kind, a sensitive, brilliant, wonderful manager.”

Bohlke, who was in his 60s, served in the Air Force for 20 years before retiring in 1990. He was a B-52 instructor pilot and squadron commander and served in the Vietnam War. He earned 10 air medals and three Distinguished Flying Crosses.

For the next 20 years, Bohlke owned and operated Tara Sanderosa Beefmasters, according to a LinkedIn profile. He also was vice president of a local credit union before becoming mayor.

Sartor said Bohlke and his wife, Tonia, have three grown children, two boys and a girl.

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source: My San Antonio (Casady, 8/28)