Ray King, age 79, long time resident of Venango, PA, died Sunday, May 15, 2011 at his home. A son of Charles King and Maude Waterhouse King, Ray was born in Waterford, PA on September 15, 1931. He married the former Betty Extein on August 30, 1952 and she preceded him in death on February 2, 2002. He was a veteran of the Korean War where he served in the US Army. After the service, Ray was employed as a block maker for Bernard Brothers in Erie for over 10 years. He also was a beef farmer, owning a farm in West Springfield, before moving to Venango. Subsequently he became owner of the Venango Hotel which he operated for several years until his retirement in 1974.

An accomplished wine maker, Ray received over 22 awards for his skills. He was looking forward so much to this year’s wine season. He enjoyed spending time with his family and was a fun loving, practical joker often spending time pondering his next practical joke. He is already greatly missed. Heaven is a brighter place with his presence.

Family surviving Ray include three daughters – Karen King of Greenville, NC; Patricia Lasher and her husband, Darel of Venango; and Ann Chapman of Meadville; seven grandchildren survive – Amy Kozalla and her husband, Dan of Saegertown; Andrea and her husband, Christopher Webb of Venango; Allison Lasher and her friend, Brandon Mineweaser of Venango; Alexis Lasher of Venango; Elizabeth Chapman of Meadville; David Chapman of Meadville; and Michael Chapman of Meadville; and one great granddaughter – Kaitlyn Kozalla. In addition, three sisters – Ruth Hasbrouck of Corry, Louise Pifer of Cambridge Springs, and Irene Lewis of Waterford. His dog “Lilly” also remains. He was preceded in death by four brothers – Harold King, Joe King, and Herbert King and a twin brother – Leroy King; and three sisters – Charlotte Fox, Marion Petrick, and Mildred Cross.

Friends may call at the Van Matre Family Funeral Home in Cambridge Springs on Tuesday from 2:00 to 4:00. Funeral services will then be held with Pastor Temple Jarrell of New Beginnings Church of God in Meadville officiating. Interment will be in Mitchell Cemetery.