Roderick James King

Roderick (Rod) James King, beloved husband, brother and friend, passed away on December 14, 2025, at University of Washington Medical Center – Northwest in Seattle, Washington. Rod was 83 years old. 

Rod is survived by his loving wife, Sheila King; sister Mary Ellen King; brother-in-law Robert De Leo; and cousins James, Bridget, Virginia, Joanna and Anne King. There are several surviving step-uncles and aunts. Rod was a life-long devout Catholic and member at Saint Mark Catholic Church in Shoreline. He is also survived by his kind and generous congregation friends Bill & Heidi Tocco who supported Rod and Sheila for many months during illnesses. 

Rod was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on September 11, 1942, the first child of George F. King and Lorraine E. King. His father was a metrologist inspector for numerous aerospace companies; his mother was a secondary school business skills teacher. 

Rod was educated at Marquette University High School and later earned his undergraduate degree in 1963 from Marquette University in Milwaukee Wisconsin. He attended graduate school at the University of California - Los Angeles, where he earned his Master’s degree in Political Science and Economics. He went on to do additional post-graduate work at UCLA. 

Rod was an avid photographer, starting at an early age with a small Kodak brownie box camera. He spent a lifetime documenting his travels, with nature subjects often a favorite. Rod shared his love of the art form with a wide audience and many lives were enriched by his creative vision. 

Rod’s other passion in life was early jazz music. He was an avid collector of recordings from its earliest days through the 1940’s. He clearly missed his opportunity to be a D.J., but his family and friends were gifted with his sharing extensive detailed musical knowledge acquired along his life’s journey.  

Rod was a putterer, handyman, builder, and fixer. No mechanical, woodworking or electrical problem withstood his attention and skills. He was a handy guy to have around! 

Rod is and will be missed. His wit, joy for life, intelligence, and continuing interest in others’ lives were a blessing to all. Rest with God, Rod. You will be remembered fondly.