Laurel M. King

Born in Numa, Iowa, Firecontrolman First Class Laurel King was a proud American and Navy veteran of World War II. He joined the Navy in 1943 and served on board the USS Eldorado (AGC 11), USS Manchester (CL 83), USS Coral Sea (CVB 43) and USS Wright (CVL 49). In 1947 he married Mary Bortnichak. After he left the Navy, they settled in Pennsylvania to raise a son and daughter.
Laurel was an electrician for many years and retired in 1986. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, cross country skiing, bicycling and any other activities that took him outdoors. He loved growing vegetables and herbs and then using those vegetables in dishes he cooked. After retiring, he and his wife traveled to Navy ship reunions all around the country. He had so many passions that always kept him engaged. Even at 91 he was amazed with technology and wanted to know how it worked. He always wanted to learn and was very willing to share his knowledge. He did not instruct but rather guided you to understanding.
In his later years, he enjoyed time at the Senior Center, often eating lunch every day and playing shuffleboard, Wii bowling and, most of all, dancing. He was always in demand as a dance partner. He sure could dance!
Oct. 4, 2015, was a sad day when he died. A light has gone out and he is very much missed by all who knew him. He was predeceased by his son, Robert, in 1969 and his wife, Mary, in 2008. He is survived by his daughter, Barbara King, and granddaughters Amanda High and Marisa High.