William Patrick King

William “Patrick” King entered this world on August 6, 1934. He was born in Polk County, Minnesota to William and Beatrice King. The third born, he joined twins, Dave and June. A third sibling, Jim, soon followed.

Leaving Minnesota, the family made their way across country settling in Yankton, Oregon. Always industrious, the 1950s census listed his occupation as “strawberry hoer.” In 1953, he graduated from St. Helen’s High School. Pat enlisted in the US Army stationed in Alaska. He enjoyed reminiscing about his Army days. He liked comparing those days in the Army to being an “Elite Arctic Ranger.”

In his teens, he committed his life to the Lord. He was an active member of the Highland Park Nazarene Church. There he met and married his first wife Barbara. Two daughters, Linda and Lorrie followed. He was ultimately blessed with 5 grandchildren (Jamie, Kirt, Justin, Amanda, Brian) and 10 great-grandchildren.

He married Evie in 1978. They had many travel adventures and some fun misadventures in their nearly 47 years together. A hot air balloon crash followed by a tumble in the basket is just one example of their shared shenanigans.

Pat possessed a knack for facts and figures. Combined with the gift of gab, he naturally gravitated toward freight sales. A top salesman, he held an encyclopedic memory of truck routes and train schedules. With Evie’s assistance, he continued wheeling & dealing freight, even after he retired. That extra income allowed them to “buy the good wine with dinner” he’d say.

Sharp of mind and strong of will, Pat endured many health crises. His family called him “The Energizer Bunny” as he overcame seemingly insurmountable challenges. Without complaint, in every conversation, he expressed gratitude and thanksgiving.

He exited this world and entered into heaven on November 2, 2025. It was on his terms—surrounded by loved ones, at home, in his Lazy Boy recliner. A blessing to others, he never once doubted that he was blessed by God.