After thawing the line out several times, I finally noticed that there was a small continuous drip from the inlet. This led me to believe that the inlet valve was not fully closing likely to due to hard water buildup in the valve. The refrigerator is only 5 years old but old enough to suspect fouling in my area. Anyway, installed new valve and although the line did freeze again I suspected it was just working out the air after install. I again dethawed and for at least one day seems to be working ok. I did go ahead and purchase a whole new ice maker as it can not hurt and only costs $100+/-. With receipt of that part I should have a complete new ice maker system for less than $160. Not bad and the repairs were super easy. Thanks for a prior comment on this part as it did help.
One final note. Although my existing inlet valve also used the push in connectors, when I installed new, I was fearful of pushing in one of the water lines too hard. It kept leaking but after a few minutes of examining and cleaning off the line, I pushed hard and there was a noticeable catch. No more leaks. Advice, give the line a hard push in with at least 20-30 lbs of force. Not sure correct but guessing that much. Again no more leaks after that.