Robert Harold "Bob (Sarge)" King
Celebration of life is planned for the spring/summer of 2025 in Illinois.
Robert Harold "Bob (Sarge)" King, born on April 24, 1945, in Dodgeville, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on December 19, 2024, in Orlando, Florida. He was the beloved son of Helen and Harold King.
Bob spent his early years in southwestern Wisconsin before his family relocated to Lena, Illinois, where he grew up. On October 4, 1965, Bob married the love of his life, Ardith (Burma), beginning a devoted partnership that spanned nearly six decades. Together, they raised three children: James (Amy) King of Roscoe, Jeffery King (deceased), and Angela (William) Carter. He was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren — Matthew (Ashlee) King, Lucas (Chelsea) King, Jonathan (Hillary) King, Hannah (Tyler) Thiessen, Rebecca King, and Emily Carter — and a cherished great-grandfather to Gabriel, Ella, Denver, Daxton, Bowen, Brayden, Garrett, and Lydia. Bob is also survived by his sister, Judith Polhill.
At the age of 21, Bob began his distinguished career with the Illinois State Police, graduating from the police academy in 1968. He became a leading expert in vehicle identification and auto theft investigations, training cadets across Illinois, the Midwest, and even at the FBI Academy.
After retiring from law enforcement, Bob channeled his expertise into the classic car industry, working with Mecum Auctions to authenticate and facilitate events nationwide. His passion for automobiles was evident in his personal collection, including his award-winning 1961 Corvette and his final classic car, a 1964 Ford Galaxie 500.
Bob’s interests extended beyond cars to include collecting beer cans, signs, farm toys, promotional cars, and M&M memorabilia. In 2022, Bob and Ardith moved to Orlando, Florida, where they enjoyed their golden years playing dominoes, watching basketball games, and connecting with their new community.
Bob’s life was filled with accomplishments, family, and friendships. He will be deeply missed by all that have known him. May his memory bring comfort and inspiration to those he leaves behind. The family is planning a celebration of life for Bob in the spring/summer of 2025 in Illinois. Details will be provided through social media in the future.
