Obituary of Francis Willard King

Passed away peacefully at Highland Place Residence, Kitchener on Friday, June 20, 2025 at the age of 95.

Beloved husband of the late Betty King (Sibbick) who predeceased him August 25,1999, and Eleanor Reibling King who predeceased him January 18, 2021. Dear father of Barb Schmidtke of Oliphant, Karen Yardley and husband Jim of Kitchener, Jeff and wife Meredith of Waterloo, and father-in-law of Jill King of Port Hope. Sadly missed by his grandchildren Shannon Gingrich, Ryan Schmidtke (Melinda), Felicia King, Kyle King (Amy), Shawn King, Colin Yardley (Sarah), Rebecca Yardley (Joe), Emma King, Matthew King, and 11 great grandchildren. Willard is also fondly remembered by his brother Nelson and wife Ann of Baden and sister-in-law Dianne Sibbick of Woodstock along with Eleanor’s family and several nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by his son Kevin (2006), son-in-law Klaus Schmidtke (2024), parents Frank & Luella (Houston) King, brother Stewart King, sister-in-law Norma King, sister Helen King, and brother-in-law George Sibbick.

Willard was born and raised on a farm near Bright, ON. He attended the Ontario Agricultural College, graduating in 1951 and returned to farm with his brother Nelson on the family farms until 1990. He was active in the community all his adult life, spending many years involved with Junior Farmers, 4-H Clubs, the Drumbo Fair Board, the Plattsville Arena Board and Plattsville and District Minor Hockey, including as convenor of the Novice hockey tournament for nearly two decades. After moving to Waterloo in 1990, Willard remained very active in community seniors’ groups and Church work, most recently at Emmanuel United Church in Waterloo. He honed his woodworking skills during these years and gifted many wonderful keepsakes to family and friends. 

Willard spent the last four years at Highland Place Residence in Kitchener where he embraced life in this caring community, making many wonderful friends, participating enthusiastically in the daily activities and serving as Resident Council President for three years.

Cremation has taken place. A private memorial service will be held.  

Condolences for the family, and in lieu of flowers, donations to WRHN Foundation are appreciated and can be arranged through the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo at 519-745-8445 or www.erbgood.com.