Charles W. King, Jr., 74
Charles W. King Jr., of Custer, passed away peacefully at home on March 3, 2023, at the age of 74.
Charles was born May 12, 1948, to Charles King Sr. and Gertrude (Oleson) King in Wisconsin Rapids. He attended local schools and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1966.
Following high school, Charles bravely joined the US Marine Corps and proudly served from 1967-1969 which included one tour in Okinawa during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he furthered his education at the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point, graduating in 1973 with a Bachelor of Science majoring in Sociology and Anthropology. Throughout his career he was devoted to social work, working for various social services. He also pursued his love for helping animals and was a farrier for a period of time. He finished his career with the Children’s Hospital in Wausau, retiring in 2010.
Charles was a man with a big heart who cared for everyone and everything around him; from those he served in his career – helping children in the foster home system, to his family and friends, to nature and animals. He had compassion for animals, taking in many different rescue animals throughout his life, including horses, birds, and cats, as well as having many dogs throughout his life. This gentleness carried over to his own family; he was a supportive father and coach to his son, Max.
Charles was also known for his love of music. He enjoyed playing his guitar, as well as singing and playing in the bands Dakota County and Loose Strings. Music was always playing at the farm, including his favorite outlaws – Merle, Willie, and Hank. He passed on his love for Bluegrass music to his son, who has followed in his footsteps with playing instruments and singing.
Charles is survived by his son, Maxwell (Nina) King; his stepdaughter, Lisa (Shannon) Banks; four nephews, Scott (Tonya) Falkosky, Cary (Elizabeth) Falkosky, Randy (Susan) Falkosky, and Dennis (Terri) Falkosky; his ex-wife, Meg Macy; and his golden retriever, Merle.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Jim Falkosky, Ron Falkosky, and Kenny Falkosky; his partner, Sharon Vogel; and his ex-wife, Jean Banks.
The family would like to thank the oncology team at Aspirus Stevens Point for the compassionate care given to Charles throughout his battle with cancer.
Memorials may be designated to Tiny Hooves Sanctuary through tinyhooves.org/donate in Charles’ honor. Please help us let his love for animals live on.