John King

John King, 79, of Gosport, passed away on Monday, October 17, 2016 at Hearthstone Health Campus. John was born in Washington, D.C., on March 18, 1937, to Mortimer and Thelma (Burton) King. John was a graduate of Gosport High School and received his Bachelor’s Degree from Indiana State University. John was a long-time businessman in Gosport, where he had an insurance agency and real estate business. He was a member of the Beth Shalom Jewish Temple in Bloomington. John’s passion was community service. His involvement was limitless, but here are some highlights: founding member of the Owen County Community Foundation, member of Chamber of Commerce, Owen County Learning Network, Gosport Lions Club, Gosport Father’s Auxiliary of VFW, Jim Fulford Open Golf Fundraiser, Gosport Business Association (of which he is a founder), Big Brothers Big Sisters, Gosport Town Council, and the Owen County Council. John was a leading figure in starting the Gosport Medical Association, youth football in Owen County, Downtown Revitalization Project, Storm Water Management Project, he secured many grants for the community, and helped get Gosport officially declared as an Indiana Main Street Community. John has received many awards. Highlights were the Governor’s Award for Lifetime Achievement in Volunteer Service, “Unsung Hero” award for his work with an in-school mentoring program, Gosport Lazy Days Senior Citizen Award, and most recently being selected as a torch bearer for the state of Indiana Bicentennial torch relay. John was also known as an entertainer and for his “double talk” ability where he performed on the Johnny Carson show in 1962. He also had many memorable performances at Gosport Lazy Days with his family. Memorable shows were the Super Bowl Shuffle, King Tut, Batman, and The Blues Brothers. John is survived by his brother, Joe King of Gosport; his son, Brad King; daughter-in-law, Robin King; grandchildren, Cassondra, Nolan and Cameron King of Spencer, Devin Houston of Florida; and longtime girlfriend, Judy Brighton of Martinsville. John is also survived by his nieces, Kim King Smith (Mark) of Edinburgh, Alyssa King Rice (Tom) of Gosport and Michel King (Kelly) of Bloomington, along with many great-nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at the Gosport United Methodist Church. Following will be a Jewish Graveside service at the Gosport Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking memorial contributions to be made to the Owen County Community Foundation in John’s name, P.O. Box 503, Spencer, IN 47460. Chandler Funeral Home-Whitaker Chapel is in charge of arrangements.

John King

March 18, 1937 - October 17, 2016