In Loving Memory of Wayne King.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Wayne George King, who departed this life on August 13, 2025 at the age of 64.

Wayne was a cherished son, brother, uncle and friend whose sense of humor, kindness, and generosity touched the lives of all who knew him.

Born on March 7, 1961 Wayne lived and shared a full life of adventure, laughs, and deep friendships. Wayne dedicated four years serving his country in the United States Navy rising in rank to Operations Specialist Second Class on the USS Seattle. He continued his education at the Diesel Technology Institute in Enfield, CT where Wayne received his Class 8 certification. Always looking to improve himself, he became skilled and certified in several OSHA compliant trainings. He received certification in General Health and Safety in a Manufacturing Environment, Forklift certification and various training in MSDS, hazardous materials handling, PPE, and ergonomics. Throughout his life Wayne was employed at Rhino Foods, Velan Valve, Casella Waste Management, and S.D. Ireland before succumbing to the disabling advancement of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Wayne's empathy for others and willingness to help made him a great team player at work and a wonderful friend. Wayne was a good listener who made a positive difference in the lives of others. He was a loyal confidante, a partner in crime, a witty drinking partner, and was always available to ride shotgun to the next adventure. Wayne had a soft heart. A competitive game night opponent, Wayne would enjoy hours of outwitting and strategizing in cards, then laugh when you caught him cheating. His uniquely endearing, quirky humor, salty sarcasm, and quick wit made more than one best friend.

Among the many certificates of recognition Wayne kept protected, none were more cherished than the Vermont Distinguished Service Medal awarded for honorable service in the military, granted by Governor Peter Shumlin. Wayne was a proud Veteran and held his time in the Navy close to his heart. He also valued his lifelong membership in the NRA and believed that gun rights are fundamental to other freedoms and held a strong stance for self-reliance and limited government.

Wayne is survived by his brothers and sisters, Mike King of Enosburg, VT, Ann King of Longmont, CO, Mike Jenne and Bill Jenne of Burlington, VT, and Denna Benjamin of Franklin, VT, who will forever hold his memory close; several nieces and nephews with a special mention to Mikayla Hull who he shared a very special bond with. He was predeceased by his father Ned King, brothers Alan and Doug King, and David Jenne.

Wayne's final resting place will be honored at the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph with full military honors. A Celebration of Life will be held at the VFW in Winooski on Friday, September 5, at 3:00pm where friends and family are welcome to gather and share memories. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Agewell@ agewellvt.org/giving-back/donate/.