Obituary of James Franklin King

James Franklin “Jim” King, age 77, of Springfield, OR, left this earthly home on Wednesday, March 15. 

He is survived by his wife and companion of nearly 50 years, Delores; his daughter, Donnelle; step-daughter, Lorrie; sister, Linda; his sons-in-law Eric and Adam; grandson Isak, and granddog Charlie. Also fondly remembering him are his niece Rochelle; and  Delores’s younger siblings - Andy, Terri, Vickie, and Gina, whom they raised together with their own children. His fur babies Priscilla and Mia are inconsolable.

He is preceded in death by his brother Jasper “Linn;” parents Arthur Linly and Alma Katherine; Donnelle’s mother RuthAnn; favorite uncles Raymond, Clarence “Chubb”, and Eldon “Bud” Fipps; beloved hounds Hansel and Jerry, and his deluxe blue Ford pickup.

James was a lifelong resident of Lane County, graduating with fond memories of Springfield High School, and legendary tales of cruising the streets from Main to Willamette. During the Vietnam War, he volunteered his service with the US Army, as part of an infantry division in Western Europe, receiving an honorable discharge. He retired as a painting contractor and master carpenter, from a career that spanned the whole of Western Oregon. Notable renovations included covered bridges from Harrisburg to Blue River, McKenzie High School, and the landmark White Water Cafe. As a lifetime member of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, he served where needed as an elder, deacon, and friend to all.

When the kids were young, Jim led his pack on weekly excursions from Florence to Bend and beyond, never once stopping to ask directions. As an avid outdoorsman, he instilled a love of flannel, camping, and “jumping waves” to an entire generation of Kings and Renards. He could bend any piece of wood to his will, much to the delight of his daughters, when their school diorama projects were due. He never met a peach pie he didn’t like, and logged countless hours in the diners of Eugene/Springfield, talking to everyone, and consuming coffee by the gallon. He could name and quote every John Wayne western; practicing quick draws, well into retirement. His love of animals ensured the house was a revolving door of pets, strays, and wildlife rescues. As the family joker, his pranks and humor were as legendary as his love for black licorice.

A debt of gratitude goes out to David and Pam Shipley, who have provided loving care and support for Delores, as well as compassion and moral support for the family.

Friends can pay their respects at the memorial service on Sunday, March 26, at 11 a.m., at the Santa Clara Seventh-Day Adventist Church (750 Wilkes Drive, Eugene), and visit with the family at the reception following. 

Memorial donations in Jim’s name can be made to the Greenhill Humane Society.