Ralph "Shorty" King Obituary (1921

After a life of almost 90 years, Ralph "Shorty" King passed away August 25, 2011. His loving wife of 67 years was at his side. Shorty was born November 6, 1921 to Arthur & Marie King on Vashon Island, WA. They moved to West Seattle where he grew up and graduated from West Seattle High School. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard during WWII, and in 1944 married Elaine Dunlap. He became a Seattle Firefighter until he retired 25 years later. Shorty and his wife then moved to Hansville, WA where he spent his time doing what he loved - fishing, hiking, gardening, beachcombing, and most of all, enjoying family and friends. He loved traveling, spending many winters in Florida & Arizona. Baseball was a big part of Shorty's life. He loved it and was All-City 2nd baseman during his 3 years of high school. He continued to play for the Coast Guard's team during the war. Shorty was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers. He is survived by his beloved wife, Elaine; son Robert of Portland, OR; daughters Sheri Craker (Tom) of Port Angeles, WA & Debra Pflug (John) of Grand Rapids, MI; 5 grandchildren; Melissa Allison (Dustin), Kristina, Kelli, Michael & Kimberly Pflug; great-grandchildren: Colton & Caleb Allison; Sister's-in-law: Dorthea King & Doris Dunlap, and many nieces and nephews. A special thanks to all who cared for him during his stay at Harbor House. Donations may be made in his memory to Franciscan Hospice or a charity of your choice. A private Burial will be held at Hansville Cemetery.