Thomas L. E. King

Tom was born on June 27, 1938, in Kirksville, Missouri, to Claude and Esther King. He lived a life defined by hard work, resilience, love for family, and an unwavering toughness that those who knew him admired deeply.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Esther King; his siblings, Major King, Wilma Foster, and Bill King; his son, Blaine King; and two great-grandchildren, Marcus Elam and Jaiden Marts.

He is survived by his children, Shawn King (John Canter) Laurie Mayden, Debra (Debby) Simmons and Kristy (Kip) Hawkins, . He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Rikki (Devon) Dodge, Braden Marts, Kierra (Turnell) Fennell, Damian Mayden, Alex Hawkins, Jack Hawkins. Great-grandchildren: Jordan Cafferty, Alexia Cafferty, Kambren Robertson, Corbin Cafferty, Hayden Marts, Blayden Marts. Tom believed in hard work and spent his early career at Sunflower and Dubuque Meat Packing before beginning a 34-year career at Boeing, where he served as a Parts Manager until retirement. Never one to sit still, he also pursued his entrepreneurial spirit through his own tree-trimming business.

Outside of work, Tom found joy in noodling and pole fishing. Tom especially loved spending time along the Ninnescah at his cabin, where some of his happiest moments were spent in the river searching for new fishing holes. He believed in staying strong, was a firm believer in working out, and had a toughness about him that many would say defined his character — “tough” may as well have been his middle name.

To those who loved him, he answered to many names: “Boom,” “Goopa,” and most importantly, “Dad,” along with countless other nicknames that reflected the many roles he played in the lives of family and friends.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Tom’s life during visitation on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Hillside Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held Friday, May 22, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., followed by a graveside service at Greenwood Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest.

Tom will be remembered for his strength, determination, humor, deep love for family, and the lasting impact he made on those fortunate enough to know him.