May 9, 1926 – December 6, 2023

It is with heavy hearts and a profound sense of loss that we announce the passing of Joseph King, who lived a remarkable 97 years. Joe peacefully departed this world in Grass Valley, California, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born in Mesa, Arizona and raised in Oakland, CA, Joe was the only child of Marcella McGowen, a single mother who instilled in him the values of resilience and compassion. After graduating from Oakland Tech High School in 1944, Joe enlisted in the Army Air Corp, serving as a radio crewman in a Curtis C-46 during the final year of World War II and in post-war Japan.

Following his military service, Joe earned a BA in history from the University of California, Berkeley. In 1950, he moved to Alameda, California and took over the newly-formed Alameda Boys Club at Washington Park. Joe’s leadership and dedication led to the construction of the Alameda Boys Club building on Lincoln Avenue in 1957, where he continued to serve as the first Director until 1959. During his tenure at the Boys Club, over 700 boys joined the club, and for many it was the primary social and athletic outlet outside of the home and many of its members still consider Joe a second father to them. He then embarked on a distinguished teaching career at Encinal High School, where he taught History, English, and Psychology, while also coaching track and cross country from 1960 to 1989 and occasionally coaching the tennis and chess teams.

Joe’s post-retirement years were equally impactful. He transitioned into journalism, contributing to the Alameda Times Star and later the Alameda Newspaper Group. Joe authored a popular column, “Thoughts on the Run,” which he penned until the age of 89 in 2015. He was also a food critic for the paper for many years.

Joe spent over 50 years in Alameda, raising his family there with his first wife Janet Rodger King. He then moved to Central Point, Oregon for 10 years and, following the passing of his second wife, Janet Morehouse King, he relocated to Grass Valley, California, to be closer to his children and grandchildren, where he spent his final years surrounded by love.

Joe’s zest for life was evident in his wide array of interests. A celebrated runner, he won the Senior Olympic World Championships in the 1500-meter run for the 65-69 age group in 1991 and triumphed twice in the prestigious Dipsea Race at ages 69 and 70. He also held world and national age-group running records and was once a national age-group high jump champion, beating a former US Olympic decathlete in the process. Beyond running, he was an avid chess player, tennis enthusiast, and accomplished ballroom dancer. Joe’s love for poetry, music, crossword puzzles, and literature added depth to his rich tapestry of interests.

Above all, Joe was a deeply compassionate man who dedicated much of his time and energy to bettering his community. His influence on those fortunate enough to know him was immeasurable.

Joe is survived by six devoted children – Leslie King of Gualala, CA; Joe Jr. of Charlottesville, VA; John of Southern Pines, NC; Anne King of Nevada City, CA; Dennis of Saratoga, CA; and Sally King of Grass Valley, CA. Additionally, he is survived by five grandchildren – Parissa, Ryan, Layla, Forrest, and Sarah and two step-daughters – Beth (Morehouse) Jolley of Gainesville, GA, and Hilary Morehouse of Piedmont, CA.

A celebration of Joe’s extraordinary life will take place May 5th in Alameda. Those interested in attending can reach out to his son, Dennis King, at dennis.king@hpe.com.

Those who wish to honor Joe’s memory with a donation to charity are encouraged to give to the Alameda Boys & Girls Club in his name.

Joe King’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched, and his spirit will forever inspire us to lead lives filled with passion, kindness, humor, determination, and a commitment to community. May he rest in eternal peace.

1. A tribute to my father from a member of his boys club: https://alamedabgc.org/nick-cabral/

2. His first Dipsea Race win in 1995 at age 69: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFxnJGFYuQQ