Ronald Loren King, 91, passed away peacefully at Taylor Hospice in Des Moines, surrounded by his family. Ron was born on January 1, 1935, in Atlantic to Mildred Luene (Minor) King and Evan Loren King, and he remained a lifelong resident of Atlantic.
Ron spent his life in the community of Atlantic, where he built not only businesses, but lasting relationships and a legacy of hard work. Alongside his father, he owned and operated King Pin Company. After its closing, the two went on to open King Sporting Goods, a well-known local shop offering firearms, fishing gear, golf equipment, and a wide range of sporting goods. Ron was also a self-taught gunsmith, known for his skill and willingness to help others—repairing countless firearms over the years. He also was a part of the Iowa National Guard.
Ron had a deep love for the outdoors and a passion for sports. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, bowling, and golfing. In his younger years, he achieved the remarkable feat of bowling a perfect 300 game at the Superbowl—something he was always proud of. He was also a devoted fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and loved cheering them on whenever he could. Ron had a natural gift for humor and loved making others laugh, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met.
Family meant everything to Ron. He cherished time spent with those he loved, especially trips to Okoboji, where his parents owned a cabin. What began as childhood memories grew into a tradition he proudly carried on for many years—bringing his own family together at the lake. Today, that legacy lives on, as his family continues to gather annually in Okoboji, a lasting reflection of the memories he helped create.
In true Ron fashion, his sense of adventure never faded. A few years ago, he rode his bike downtown to Deter Motors with nothing but his checkbook, purchased a red Chevy Corvette on the spot, loaded his bike into the back, and drove it home. That car brought him great joy, and he enjoyed every moment he had with it.
Above all, Ron loved his family deeply. Ron was married to Janet (Wesack) King on November 3rd, 1957. They were blessed with three children, Michael Loren King, Rhonda Ellen (King) Walker and Karen Lenora King-Fitzgerald. He made every effort to attend his children’s and grandchildren’s events and school activities, showing his unwavering support and pride. His presence will be greatly missed, but his love and laughter will live on through them.
Ron is survived by his children: Michael (Susie) King, Rhonda Walker, and Karen (Bill) King-Fitzgerald. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Corey (Poev) King, Clint Walker, Dylan (Shelby) Book, Alec Walker, Aryn (Daniel) Hilsabeck, and Rachel Walker; four great-granddaughters: Anastasia (Sergio) Reyes, Emily King, Brigett King, and Madden Book; and three great-grandsons: Craten, Mavrik, and Emmett Book, along with many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mildred and Loren King; his sisters, Charlotte Ray and Sharon Ray; former wife, Janet King; son-in-law, William Walker and many other beloved relatives.
Ron will be remembered for his humor, his independence, his dedication to his family, and a life well lived on his own terms.
A brief graveside service will be held at 4:00 p.m., on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Atlantic Cemetery in Atlantic.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Schmidt Family Funeral Home of Atlantic.
