John Everette King, 79, of Manistee, passed away Tuesday, January 6, 2026. He was born November 13, 1946, in Cleveland, Ohio, the son of John King Sr. and Pauline Kudley.

After he graduated in 1965, he worked at Michigan Drilling Company, in Detroit, until passing his United States Coast Guard Test and becoming a full time charter operator on the Great Lakes. From 1983 to 2003, John was the charter operator on Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, and Lake Erie. During the winters, he spent his time guiding on the Big Manistee River.

John's passions were fishing and his love for dogs. In 2001, a webstore was started which ultimately led to JKCS Inc. and his very own website, michigansportsman.com. In 2004, John started his own online tackle and bait store, kingfish Inc., with the help of his wife, Merlene, and together did the majority of the work themselves. John started dealing with eyesight issues due to macular degeneration in 2006, which ultimately led him sell his tackle business in June of 2025.

John will be deeply missed by his wife, Merlene, and numerous family and friends.

In accordance with John's wishes, no services will be held at this time.

Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Manistee, is in charge of arrangements.
www.oakgrovefh.com