King, Howard

Mr. Howard Arnold King, age 68 years, passed from this life at his home with wife Shirley by his side on Friday, July 22, 2005. Howard was born in Port Arthur on August 18, 1936, and was a lifetime resident of Thunder Bay. Howard was educated at Pine Street School and Port Arthur Collegiate Institute. He graduated from the Ontario Provincial Institute of Trades in 1959, and held his inter-provincial papers as a licensed automotive service, truck and coach technician for his entire life. Howard's career spanned 45 years, starting in 1960 when he assumed the management of King's Automotive Service. He earned numerous distinctions as an Imperial Oil Esso dealer, and in 1965, purchased the business from his father Arnold King and uncle Arthur King. Shortly after, Howard expanded into the electronics business and added a Muntz car stereo franchise to the garage business on Red River Road. In December 1970, he opened his first retail electronics store in the former Lakehead Motors building on St. Paul Street, and in 1975 a second location was opened on Syndicate Avenue. In 1979, the Muntz name was changed and the two stores became known as King's Stereo. Howard loved his work and dearly valued the many enduring relationships established with his customers and the Thunder Bay business community. During his lifetime, Howard was a devoted member of St. Michael and All Angels Anglican Church where, over the years, he sat on the advisory board, property committee, the board of Missions to Seafarers, and was instrumental in the development and care of the memorial garden. Howard was a long-standing member of Thunder Bay Lodge # 618 A.F. & A.M. A perfect day for Howard was spent at the cottage. He loved to boat, fish and tend to his garden and was happiest when he could spend time there with his family, close friends, and of course, his dog, Missy. Howard is survived and will always be loved and missed by his wife Shirley, daughter Sherry (Douglas Martin), family members Clarence and Violet Franz, Lloyd Franz, and Ann Franz. Also surviving are Celia King, Irene Cava (Paul), and numerous nieces and nephews. Howard was predeceased by his father Arnold King in 1982. A service to honour and celebrate Howard's life will be held on Wednesday, July 27, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. in St. Michael and All Angels Anglican Church, with Rev. Peter Smyth officiating. Services will conclude in the church and a private interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Northern Cancer Research Foundation, St. Michael and All Angels Memorial Fund, or the charity of your choice would be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to the Sargent & Son Funeral Home, 21 N. Court Street. On-line condolences may be made at www.sargentandson.com.