Howard King, a lifetime resident of Alexandria, Indiana, died in his home at the age of 85 on Wednesday, April 25, 2018 as a result of a long-term illness.
Howard was born on November 7, 1932 to Arthur and Irene King. Howard graduated from Alexandria High School in 1951 where he was awarded the “Letter A” blanket after earning 12 varsity letters. Howard attended Ball State University and was a member of the ROTC and participated in various sports.
On July 8, 1954, he married his wife of 63 years, Patricia “Patti” King. After his tour with the US Army, Patti and Howard moved back to Alexandria where Howard worked for the General Motors Company in Marion IN for 37 years. Howard was an avid open wheel-racing fan, an unbelievable handy man, and enjoyed spending time with family. Patti and Howard especially enjoyed their winters on Hilton Head Island, SC. Howard’s integrity, honesty, and multi faceted skill sets, along with his witty humor and straightforward approach to life made him easy to admire and a joy to be around.
Surviving Howard are his four daughters and two sons: Elizabeth King, Teresa Boone, Mark King, Lori King, Matt King and Kari King. Also surviving Howard are his eleven grandchildren: Heidi Kyle Tutak, Adam Kyle, Chelsea Boone, Meghann Boone Deetz, Logan King, Kylee King, Kasee King, Tyler Irwin, Alex Irwin, Olivia King and Lucy King. In addition, 12 great-grandchildren survive him. Howard was preceded in death by his wife Patricia on February 17, 2016 and his parents and a brother, Don King, of Anderson.
A gathering of family and friends for both Howard and Patti will be held at Whetsel Funeral Service (1503 S. Park Ave, Alexandria IN 46001) on May 9th from 6:00-8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Autism Society of Indiana. (http://www.autismsocietyofindiana.org