Chester Lawrence King

Chester Lawrence King was born on September 14, 1935. He passed away July 3, 2024, at age 88.

He was predeceased by his wife, June DeChant King, whom he married on October 6, 1956.

He had retired from the Ironworkers having worked for several years for the former, Elwin G. Smith Company of Pittsburgh. During the nuclear power plant boom of the late 1960’s, he worked on no less than 6 plants in the Great Lakes region. He also worked on many industrial plants throughout the Midwest states. Having been a member of Advent Lutheran Church, he was proud that he helped build the building. Chester was a life member of the Toledo Rockhound Club having joined in 1972.

He enjoyed teaching girl scouts and various classrooms about geology. Chester introduced many to rock collecting with starter kits of material he found and collected on trips. He was well known for his gifting of necklaces to the young people whenever he was out among people. He was an avid camper and hunter, which he passed on to his sons. He guided several young men through the boy scouts in the early 70’s as a Webelo leader. A leader who passed on some of his vast knowledge on several subjects to others. 

He is survived by his children, Lance, Chester L III, Anthony (Valerie) King; a grandson, Demetri (Christina) King; and several nieces and nephews.

He was the last of his siblings, son of Chester L. King and Viola Julia Collum King. He was also predeceased by his brothers and sisters, Edith Emma King Wurzinger, Richard W. King, Claudia King Mayberry, and James King.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Toledo Gem and Rockhound Club, Geology Scholarship Fund, P.O. Box 13268, Toledo OH 43613.

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