Edisel King

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Edisel Delano "Ed" King, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, dear friend and community member. For decades, Ed's name has been synonymous with Deep Creek Lake. He had a deep love for the lake and everything surrounding it and recently said, "I have never had a bad day at Deep Creek Lake." Ed peacefully departed this world on Monday, September 11, 2023, at the age of 90, in the comfort of his Deep Creek Lake home, where he has been a full-time resident for 39 years.

Born on August 4, 1933, in Hopwood, Pa., Ed was the son of the late Frank A. and Ada (Rankin) King. He grew up in a tight-knit family and from an early age developed a strong work ethic. Ed's dedication to education led him to earn bachelor's degrees from both West Virginia University and Carnegie Mellon University.

Ed's adventurous spirit led him to honorably serve his country as part of the United States Air Force. Stationed at a NATO base in France, he contributed to the defense efforts during a critical period. Following his military service, Ed pursued a successful career as a structural engineer at the American Bridge Division of U.S. Steel in Pittsburgh. Throughout his 28-year tenure, he played a significant role in notable projects across the country, including the iconic PanAm building in New York City, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and the magnificent New River Gorge Bridge.

In 1984, Ed made the life-changing decision to become a full-time resident of Deep Creek Lake, Md. His passion and love for the area led him to embark on a new journey as a Realtor®, working diligently at Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc. (formerly A&A Realty). Ed's knowledge and commitment to the real estate industry earned him respect from his colleagues and clients alike.

However, Ed's legacy extends beyond his professional accomplishments. He had an unwavering dedication to his beloved community, serving as a 50-year active member and former multi-term president of the Property Owner's Association of Deep Creek Lake and the Deep Creek Lions Club, where he was a member since 1986 and past president As a Lion, he was inducted as a Melvin Jones Fellow, which is the highest award in Lionism and recognizes superlative levels of service to others. Countless people have referred to him as "a legend" around the Deep Creek Lake community. Inspired by his love for the lake, Ed chose to share his wealth of knowledge by authoring several books, including "Famous Boats of Deep Creek Lake," "Deep Creek Lake The Founders," and "I Love Deep Creek Lake." He was diligently working to complete his final book titled "Deep Creek Lake The Founders Book 2", which will be published posthumously. He poured his all into these works as he preserved the memories and history of the lake for future generations to cherish.

Ed's kind and compassionate nature endeared him to all who knew him. He loved trips and visits with his friends and neighbors, all whom he loved dearly. He was known for his generosity, his love of life and his unmistakable "rooster crow," bugle reveille and taps. He touched countless lives through his involvement with various charitable organizations, such as Hospice of Garrett County and the Garrett County Regional Medical Center Foundation. For years, he was a fixture at Hospice's Jail and Bail booth at the county fair. Additionally, Ed dedicated his time and expertise to work with state and local governments on important matters of planning, zoning regulations and lake management.

Ed's memory will be forever cherished by his beloved wife, Lorena "Jean" King, who stood by his side throughout their journey together. He is also survived by his children, Jeffrey King of Kaneohe, Hawaii, Michelle King of Butler, Pa., and Bruce King and his wife Angela of Walnut Cove, N.C. Ed leaves behind several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who will always remember him as a loving and devoted patriarch. Additionally, numerous nieces and nephews will remember him fondly. 

In addition to his parents, Ed was preceded in death by his brother, J Darwin King, and his sister, Gloria (King) Breakiron.

A memorial service to celebrate the remarkable life of Edisel Delano King, a man who left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew him, will be held at St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Oakland at 11 AM on Saturday, October 28, 2023, with Pastor Tom Omholt officiating. Friends, family and community members will be received for one hour prior to the service. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the Deep Creek Watershed Foundation, P.O. Box 376, Oakland, MD 21550 or the donor's favorite charity.

May his kind soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory forever illuminate our lives.