It is with a great deal of sadness that I share the news of the passing of Past Rotary International President Richard “Rick” King, who died on Wednesday, October 11, 2023. Rick served as Rotary International President in 2001-2002, Rotary Foundation Trustee in 1996-2000, and District 5170 Governor in 1982-1983. A Rotarian since 1968, Rick was a member of the Rotary Club of Niles-Fremont, California USA. Many of us have had the opportunity to hear and be inspired by Rick at Rotary events over the years, especially as a keynote speaker at Pacific Northwest PETS and I know he will be missed.
Rick received the Rotary Citation for Meritorious Service and the Distinguished Service Award for his support of humanitarian and educational programs of the Rotary Foundation. He was a recipient of the PolioPlus Pioneer Award. Rick also served on the Boards and in leadership roles with many non-profit organizations. He was an elder and an officer of the Mormon Church and an active fund-raiser for the Boy Scouts of America. Rick was honored by many associations, by the President of the United States, and by many countries across the globe for his community and charitable service.
Rick is survived by his wife, Cherie Kay King, and two grown sons, Robert and Tyson. Services will be held on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. Pacific time at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, located at 810 Walnut Avenue, Fremont, California 94536.
The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Richard King Endowed Fund for Rotary Peace Centers. Please watch for a form to make a donation.
One Response
Ray was an amazing testament to Rotary and to his Church. We will miss him greatly.