Obituary of Herbert King

Herbert Earl King, 85, died on August 11, 2013 at Harmony Living Center, Wisconsin Rapids under the care of Aspirus Hospice. Herb was born on October 1, 1927 at home to Earl and Antoinette (Stelmach) King in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. He graduated from Lincoln High School and excelled in Shop classes. Herb served his country enlisting in the Navy attaining the rank of Petty Officer 1st Class. After discharged he also served in the Naval Reserve. While working at Preway, Herb met Doris Jane Kell who worked in the company Stock room. They were united in marriage on October 22, 1949 in Wisconsin Rapids. When Herb and his Dad were building the family home where Doris still resides today, Herb was also called up to serve during the Korean Conflict, stationed at Norfolk Virginia. Herb retired from Consolidated Papers, Kraft Division maintenance department with more than 36 years of service. He initially worked at Biron Division from 1951-53 and after a short stint as a Meat Cutter, was rehired at Paperboard Division in late 1954 and transferred to Wisconsin Rapids Division where he completed apprenticeships in both Pattern Making and later as a Millwright (1958) to become Journeyman in both trades. Herb joined the Kraft Division in 1968 as a Journeyman Millwright where he remained until he retired. Herb started King Patterns in 1965, making foundry patterns for Benabow and Northern Steel. For Herb, retirement just meant that he didn?t punch a clock as he continued making patterns, sharpened saws (like his Dad), as a gifted craftsman and there was little he couldn?t make. Herb played the button accordion, loved his old time Polka music, and was a member of the Central Wisconsin Button Box Club. Herb is survived by his wife, Doris Jane; one son, William King of Wisconsin Rapids; one daughter, Susan King of Berwyn, Illinois. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 16, 2013 at Herman-Taylor Funeral Home in Wisconsin Rapids. Rev. Aden Ward will officiate. Interment with military honors will follow at Forest Hill Mausoleum. Visitation will be from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday and from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services on Friday at the funeral home.