Samuel King 01/27/2024

Samuel E. King, aged 76, from New Richmond, WI, embarked on his Next Great Adventure on Jan. 27, 2024, surrounded by family and friends, just as he journeyed through his physical life.
The passing of this respected Vietnam War veteran, decorated combat Marine, and loyal friend will create a void in the hearts of those who cherished him, yet their lives are enriched for having crossed paths with him.
Born on April 22, 1947, in Newland, NC, to Bill and Bernice (Carpenter) King, Sam grew up on the family farm, enjoying days of hunting and fishing when not in school, playing football, or assisting with the rural chores.
In 1969, following his father’s footsteps, a WWII veteran, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving four years, including combat duty in the Vietnam War. As an infantryman, he faced some of the war’s toughest challenges. His nickname “Tunnel Rat” stemmed from his task of solo reconnaissance of enemy tunnels armed with only a flashlight, mirror on a long stick, and a pistol – some tunnels still occupied. His smaller stature allowed him to navigate these tunnels.
Later, he was assigned to a team of Marines in the CAP Unit. They lived and worked in native villages and organized the locals to defend themselves. Sam was honored with the Bronze Star for his bravery, received a Purple Heart for injuries sustained in combat along with the R.V.N. Cross of Gallantry with Palm. His injuries made it impossible for him to rejoin the infantry, which led him to return to civilian life in 1973.
Relocating to Alaska, he joined the thriving oil industry and met Kaye Lynne “Charli” Kastens from New Richmond, WI. They wed on Aug. 16, 1985, in Anchorage. After traveling they settled in New Richmond in 1990, they raised their sons: Ezekiel “Zeke” in Portland, OR; Orren in New Richmond; and enjoyed time with his older children: Samuel Eric (North Carolina), Crystal (Tennessee), and Aaron (Arizona).
An active member of the Wisconsin War Eagles Chapter of the Leathernecks Motorcycle Club, Sam rode thousands of miles with the club to various events across states. He served as the War Eagles’ chaplain and was a highly respected travel companion.
Survived by his wife, Charli; sons, Ezekiel King (Minerva Mansfield), Orren King (Brittney Lentz), Aaron King (Kelly); daughter, Crystal Callaway-Ricker (Jeff Birchfield); sister, Sylvia (Gerald ”Skip”) Sullens; six grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will take place at 5 p.m. on Sunday, April 21, 2024, at Prairieview Covenant Church, 1396 210th Ave., New Richmond. Visitation will be held two hours before the service. Following the service, Sam’s favorite meal of Biscuits and Gravy will be served. The service will be live-streamed via a link below the obituary.
The final ride and interment was on Monday, April 22, from New Richmond to the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner, WI. The final ride met at Prairieview Covenant Church (1396 210th Ave New Richmond WI 54017) with kickstands up at 9AM. Interment was at 12 noon in Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Arrangements by Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.

Click here to watch the recording of Samuel King’s service.