Earl King

Earl Kenneth King, 83, of Perry passed from this life on October 26, 2013 at his home with his loving family by his side. Services have been entrusted to the care of Palmer Marler Funeral Home of Perry and a service celebrating Earl's life will be held at 10:00am Wednesday, October 30 at the First Christian Church in Perry with burial following at Sumner Cemetery. Public visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 29 from 9am to 8pm with the family greeting friends at the funeral home from 6pm to 8pm.
Earl was born on July 31, 1930 in Sumner, OK to Robert and Bertha (Hornberger) King. He grew up and attended schools in Sumner, but transferred to Perry High School for his senior year. Following high school, Earl enlisted in the United States Army where he served honorably during the Korean War and attained the rank of Corporal. Upon his discharge, he began working for Boeing in Wichita, KS before enrolling in the electrical technology program at Oklahoma A&M in Stillwater. In 1954, Earl married the love of his life Donna Rae Thompson. In 1958, he began a lifelong career at the City of Perry. During his 45 year career, Earl worked for several years with each division of the Perry utilities dept. He attempted to retire in the late 90's, but was drawn back by his desire to serve his community. In 2005, Earl finally retired to spend more time with his family.
Following his retirement, Earl continued to pursue his hobbies of raising cattle and chickens. He enjoyed playing his guitar, traveling and spending time in his garden and with his grandchildren. Earl was an easy going man who was always willing to help a friend or family member in need. He possessed a quiet strength and his smile lit up the lives of anyone near him. He was proud of his service to the city of Perry and he enjoyed his job and the wonderful friends and co-workers he made there. Earl King was a loving husband, a caring father, a proud grandpa, a dependable employee, and a trusted friend. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Earl was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Bertha King, and a son Kyle King. He is survived by his wife Donna, of the home. Two children: Mike King and wife Brenda, of Perry and Kim Fisher and husband Mark, of Norman. A daughter in law Teresa King of Stillwater. A sister Earlene Vernon of Fenton, MO. 8 grandchildren: Josh Foster, Falon King Butler, Amanda Zemp, JD Foster, Steven Fisher, Robert King, Angel King Mast, and Macy Fisher. 9 great grandchildren: Isabella King, Joseph Warren, Emily Foster, Jaxon Foster, Ashley Mast, Kaden King, Jacob Foster, Maleah Zemp, and Tanner Zemp.
The family wishes to thank the nurses and staff of Companion Hospice for the extraordinary care they gave Earl over the last few months. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made in Earl's name to Companion Hospice in care of Palmer Marler Funeral Home, 203 Fir St. Perry, OK 73077.
Condolences may be sent to the family via an online guestbook at www.perrycares.com.