Dorothy “Chic” King

Dorothy Barbara King was born and raised in Bonners Ferry, Idaho.  Affectionately known as “Chic” she left an indelible mark on all who knew her. In high school, she was active in band, cheer, and swimming in the creeks. She also worked diligently at the creamery and a café throughout her high school years.

Chic spent one year studying art at the all-girls Holy Names College in Spokane, Washington, which later became part of Gonzaga University, aligning her forever with her beloved team. It was during a winter dance while home for the holidays that she serendipitously met Pat King, who had just returned home from the war. They married in December of 1946 and embarked on a journey filled with love and mutual support.

The couple moved to Moscow, Idaho, where Chic worked as a librarian while Pat attended college at the University of Idaho. After his graduation, they relocated to Walla Walla, Washington, for Pat’s first position in journalism. Their journey then took them to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho; Beloit, Wisconsin; Kalispell, Montana; and finally back to Coeur d'Alene. In each place, Chic made a significant impact on her community and family as a pillar of hospitality in the publishing community, welcoming and supporting families with grace and warmth.

Chic's commitment to her community and family was unwavering. She was a campfire girls leader, cub scout leader, and worked tirelessly in the hospital auxiliary for over 40 years and gained notable recognition for over two thousand hours of service. An active member of the P.E.O., mother's club, and altar society, Chic's participation in her children's activities, sports, and education was remarkable. Her energy was boundless until the end, as she enjoyed walking, cross-country skiing, hiking, and, of course, lake living. Traveling and camping brought her joy, but her greatest pleasure was found in the love and care she put into the huckleberry pies she lovingly served to family and friends. 

Chic’s unwavering faith in the Catholic Church was a cornerstone of her life. She attended Mass daily, often walking to church most days. Her dedication to her faith was reflected in her active participation in the altar society and various church activities, where she found immense joy and purpose.

Dorothy “Chic” King joins her beloved husband, C. Patrick King, and her sons, Kevin and Philip, in the eternal light of heaven. She is survived by her siblings Polly, Jim, Helen, and sister’s in law Judy and Mary Lou, her children, Kris, Pat, Bob, Betsy, and Dan. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Vincent’s Food Kitchen, the PEO scholarship Fund, or the Kootenai Health Clinical Scholarship.

Memorial Mass for Chic will be 11:00 A.M. Thursday July 18, 2024, at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Coeur d'Alene, ID.