Rev. King was born on May 19, 1937 in Detroit, MI to Margaret (Wallenmaier) and Frederick King. Don earned a B.A. degree in anthropology and agriculture from Michigan State University, where he also ran hurdles for track & field. Attending seminaries representing the Reformed, Methodist, and American Baptist traditions, Rev. King received his M.Div. from Central Baptist Theological Seminary in 1964. He was ordained the same year and began his ministry at First Baptist Church of Kansas City. Upon receiving standing in the United Church of Christ in 1974 and the Presbyterian Church-USA in 2003, his 56 years of ordained ministry would include serving grateful congregations in Milwaukee, Kiel, Humbird, Fall Creek, Fountain City, Marshfield, the Ho-Chunk Nation, Phillips, and Merrill.
Don’s faith permeated every aspect of his life. A Barthian scholar and preacher, he saw God in all things, and perhaps most importantly in those whom Jesus called “the least of these,”—the vulnerable, the suffering, the oppressed. Many will remember his tireless work for social justice and civil rights, his respect and nurturing for the earth, and his recognition of our common humanity. To Don, sharing good music and good food was a divinely ordained act of worship.
It might be said that Don was as at home in the saddle or the seat of a tractor as he was in the pulpit. His love of horses and farming began as a boy on his Grandpa Wallenmaier’s farm and came to fruition as a founding member of the Wisconsin Foundation Quarter Horse Association. Through the appreciation of and generous care for his horses, he was able to share his ever-expanding embrace of life’s simple pleasures and lessons only animals can teach us.
Don is affectionately remembered by his beloved wife of 43 years, Sue, his children and their partners (Bruce, Marcus, Tim, Sarah, David, Alison, Peter), grandchildren, great-grandchildren, brother, and countless friends and neighbors.
“Make a story; Show how love and joy, beauty and goodness shine…”
A gathering of remembrance and celebration is scheduled for May 2 at the High View Inn, W7766 Perkinstown Ave. in Medford at 11am.
Memorials may be given in his name to a cause or organization close to your heart. Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. For online condolences, please visit hemerfuneralservice.com.
