DOVER - Michael Alan "Coach" King passed away Friday, Feb. 9, 2018 at home.
Mr. King was born Sept. 26, 1931 in Chicago, Ill. to the late Edward King and Argyle Wills King. He received his Bachelor in Music Education from Northwestern University, his Bachelor in Elementary Education from Ohio University, and a Master of Science degree from the University of Southern California. Mr. King was a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC) and on the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT).
He served in the United States Air Force for 20 years as an Intelligence Officer retiring as a Major and had been stationed in England, Japan, Spain, Turkey and South Vietnam. After the service he taught elementary school math and science for the Caesar Rodney School District. He was also an Athletic Training Classroom Instructor for Delaware State University, Assistant High School Boys' Basketball Coach for Caesar Rodney School District, Assistant Men's Basketball Coach at Delaware State University, Student Athletic Trainer for both Delaware State University and the University of Delaware, Adjunct Certified Athletic Trainer/CI at the University of Delaware and a Certified Athletic Trainer for Brown & Assoc. Orthopedic & Sports Physical Therapy Clinic. Mr. King was a member of the National Athletic Training Association (NATA), the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA) and the Delaware Athletic Training Association (DATA). He was awarded the Delaware 2002 Certified Athletic Trainer of the Year Recognition Award.
Coach King was a life-long learner and an inspirational teacher. His unyielding commitment to others consisted with providing individualized, ongoing care and training to athletes. He was seen regularly attending athletic events to support players and their family; he encouraged off-season conditioning.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his son, Kristopher King.
He is survived by his wife of 17 years, Gail Beyard King of Dover; sons, Brian Beyard and Kendall King; daughters, Kathleen and Kimberly King; and his twin brother, Sherman King.
Memorial services will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions be made to any veteran's affiliation of choice.
Letters of condolences may be sent and guestbook signed at www.torbertfuneral.com