Earl Ross King age 81 of Florence, passed away on Saturday, July 23, 2016. Visitation will be on Wednesday, July 27, 2016 from Noon until 2:00pm at St. John United Methodist Church. Services will follow at 2:00pm at the church with Brother Greg Burnett officiating. Burial will be at Roseland Park Cemetery in Berkley, Michigan.

He is preceded in death by his Father and Mother, Emery and Marjorie King, and his sister Betty Stevens.

Earl is survived by his wife of 61 years, Lorraine G. Hansen King. Four children, Debra King Hinkley (Marc), Dawn King Longe, Shawn Braun (Bernard), and Juli McLeod (David). Twelve grandchildren, Claire King Hinkley, Kate Longe, Kelly Longe, Ross Braun (Nicole), Taylor Lorraine Braun Ernest (Clark), Austin Braun, Olivia Braun, Daniel Finwall, Kendall McLeod, Ali McLeod, Nick McLeod and Davy McLeod. Nine great-grandchildren, Tristen Finwall, Daniel Finwall, Sophia Finwall, Conlan Braun, Kaylyn Braun, Makenzie Braun, Keaghan Braun, Charlotte Braun and Annora Ernest.

Mr. King is a graduate of Lincoln High School in Ferndale Michigan and then attended a Tool and Die vocational school. He went on to pursue a career in the industry working locally at Dieco and retiring from Die Tech in the year 2009. He was a gifted artist, avid foodie and Formula One enthusiast. His athletic pursuits included football, baseball, tennis and hockey. He contributed to many of the aspects of the community of faith at St. John United Methodist Church in Florence, Al where he was a member.

He will be remembered by his family and friends for his larger than life presence combined with his gentle voice and demeanor. He will be lovingly remembered for his strong work ethic, engaging smile, warm laugh, and his love and loyalty to family and friends.

Pallbearers will be family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. John Methodist Church memorial fund or the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation.