Charles King

Charles Earl King, 86, a lifelong resident of Zion, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Saturday, December 4, 2010, at Rolling Hills Manor in Zion, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson's disease. Charles was born April 2, 1924, in Waukegan, IL, to Charles and Florine (nee Carlson) King. He graduated from Zion High School in 1942. Charles served in the United States Air Force during World War II and later was a member of the 85th Infantry Band. On July 6, 1957, he wed Alison Rae Roy in Winthrop Harbor. Charles worked several years for NOSCO before helping to build the Zion radio station. He held many positions at the radio station, including chief engineer, station manager, and on-the- air radio personality for the morning radio show as "Uncle Charlie". Charles volunteered his broadcasting talents at many events in the Zion community, such as the Ice Show and Labor Day Parade. Charles was a long-time member of Grace Missionary Church and served the Lord by running the sound system at the church for many years. He enjoyed photography, camping, and music. Charles enjoyed working with electronics and was known in the family as Mr. Fix-It. Charles loved his family and will be greatly missed. He is survived by his wife, Alison; his son, Robin (Lynn) King of Kingsford, MI; daughter-in-law, Lerita King of Zion; his sister, Gloria (Al) Benson of Raleigh, N.C.; brother-in-law, William Roy of Waukegan; grandsons, Justin King , Ryan Cox and Mark Cox; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; Charles C. and Florine King.; and his son, Gordon A. "Gordy" King. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, December 11, 2010, at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Missionary Church, 1425 27th St., Zion with Pastor Doug Carlson, officiating. Visitation will be Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Memorial donations are suggested to Grace Missionary Church.