Charles “Dick” Richard King

Charles Richard King, 95, was peacefully called home to be with Jesus on April 14, 2026, at Lund Home Hospice of the Valley in Gilbert, Arizona.  He was surrounded by the love of his family.

Charles was born on March 3, 1931, in Chico, California. He lived a full and meaningful life marked by devotion to his family, service to his country, and a strong work ethic. He was also known to have a very witty personality and loved teasing and joking. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Thomas E. King.

He is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 74 years, Ramona (Faust) King; daughter Karen M. DeFeo, wife of Joe; son Steven R. King, husband of Mary; son Daniel “Danny” J. King, husband of Jackie; and daughter Jenifer L. King-Trasser, wife of Joe; his sister, Patricia M. (King) Farley; 6 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy.

Charles honorably served in the United States Air Force from 1949 to 1953 during the Korean War. As a radar technician, he worked in the cockpit of aircraft, demonstrating courage, skill, and dedication to his country.

Following his military service, Charles graduated from UC Berkely in California with a business degree and built a successful career as a finance executive in the leisure and travel industry. His work took him around the world, culminating in his retirement with Princess Cruises, widely known as “The Love Boat.” His career reflected his adventurous spirit and appreciation for new experiences.

Outside of his professional life, Charles found great joy in woodworking, remodeling, painting, gardening, horseback riding, music, camping in “the great outdoors”, and travelling with their dear friends. Above all, he cherished time spent with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, creating lasting memories with those he loved most.

A Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, May 18, 2026, at Clarendale of Chandler, 5900 S. Gilbert Rd., Chandler, Arizona 85249. Charles will be laid to rest with a Ceremonial Burial with Military Honors at Gilbert Memorial Park, 2100 E. Queen Creek Rd., Gilbert, Arizona 85297.

Charles will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his steadfast faith, loving heart, sense of humor, hugs, and the legacy he leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (https://www.alz.org) in Charles’s name.