Ralph E. King Jr.

Ralph E. King, Jr., 97 of Fort Myers, FL passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at Life Care Center of Estero. Formerly of Allegany, NY he moved to Bonita Springs, FL in 1987 before relocating to Fort Myers in 2016. Ralph was born October 26, 1926 in Newark, NJ the son of the late Ralph E. and Mildred (Johnson) King, Sr. Mr. King was a WWII Veteran, proudly serving his country in the United States Army in the Philippines during the later stages of the war. Ralph is a 1950 graduate of St Bonaventure University in mathematics and earned a master’s degree in education in 1952. The day after he earned his bachelor’s degree, he married the love of his life, Betty M. (Brunner) King on June 5, 1950. They lived in Olean and Fillmore, NY as well as Chatham and Metuchen, NJ before moving to Allegany, NY in the summer of 1956 to teach at his college alma mater. His passion was to share mathematics and as part of that passion, he initiated the Pre-Engineering program and was the director of the department until his retirement in 1991. He authored 200 problem solutions which have appeared in mathematics journals. Professor King loved his 35 years at Bonaventure, the students were his pride and joy. He also served his community on the Allegany Village Board for many years. Ralph was an avid golfer who also enjoyed playing bridge and painting. Mr. King was a faithful parishioner at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church where he was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 8877. Survivors include his loving children, Barbara (Stephen) Hirst of Ellicottville, NY, Paul King of Wonalancet, NH, Daniel King of Buffalo, NY, Peter (Lisa) King of Bartlesville, OK, and Robert King of Burnsville, MN; grandchildren, Aaron, Brendan, Hannah and Ryan King; and great grandson, Cabot. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Betty M. King. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at Barkley Place Senior Living in Fort Myers on Sunday February 25th at 12:30p. He will be laid to rest at the Sarasota National Cemetery, Tuesday February 27th at 1:30p. Online condolences may be offered by visiting www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Ralph’s name may be made to the Bonaventure Fund by mailing a check to St Bonaventure University Office of Advancement, PO Box 2519, 3261 W State Rd, St Bonaventure, NY14778 referencing Ralph King memorial or by calling 716-375-2328. Arrangements are being handled by Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home, Family Owned Since 1978.

Ralph E. King Jr.

October 26, 1926 - February 20, 2024