Obituary of Thomas Fredric King

Thomas Fredric King

Thomas King (Bobo, Tommy, TK), was born on March 23, 1949, in St. Louis, Missouri. After years of fighting cancer, he passed on September 16, 2023 in Belfast, Maine. As a child he played sandlot baseball, rode bikes in the neighborhood and made mischief at every opportunity. He graduated from John Adams High School in South Bend, IN, and obtained Bachelor of Science degrees in Wildlife Biology and General Agriculture from Purdue University.

In 1972, he married his kindred spirit, Anita, and together they embarked on a new chapter in southern Maine. Tom began his career as a Fisheries Biologist and later became Hatchery Manager with the US Fish and Wildlife Service, dedicated to restoring Atlantic Salmon to native rivers in Vermont and Maine. His final role was overseeing the construction of a state-of-the-art fisheries complex, complete with a learning center and museum, at Craig Brook National Fish Hatchery in East Orland, Maine.

Tom had a significant presence in the communities he called home. In Randolph, Vermont, he coached youth hockey and little league baseball while raising his two sons. After moving to Hampden, Maine, he played a pivotal role in establishing youth and high school hockey programs. His coaching prowess led Hampden Academy to the first-ever Class B High School State Final Game in 2003, earning him the title of Eastern Maine Class B High School Coach of the Year.

After 32 years of working for the US Fish and Wildlife Service, Tom retired to Belfast, Maine. He became actively involved in numerous conservation projects, leaving an indelible mark as a Board Member and President of the Belfast Bay Watershed Coalition. His vision broadened BBWC by introducing the Fish Friends Program in local schools, organizing Arbor Day and Earth Day Activities, and conducting a culvert study to improve fish migration.  Additionally, he embraced his farmer side, dedicating time to his own garden and lending a hand at Chase's Farm in Freedom.

Despite facing medical challenges over the past nine years, Tom maintained a resilient spirit that allowed him to engage in activities he loved, such as curling, hiking, playing pickleball, and kayaking. His garden was a common meeting place for his children and grandchildren, fostering their connection with Mother Earth.

Tom was preceded in death by his father, Robert Bruce King, and his mother, Anita Irene King. He is survived by his sons Kyle and wife Mimi from Hong Kong and Robert and wife Jessica from Freeport, Maine, along with his grandchildren Paz, Rio, Sage, and Benjamin. He also leaves behind his brother Robert King and wife Sandra from Michigan, sister Nancy King and husband Tom from Anguilla, three nieces, and one nephew.

Tom was a dedicated environmentalist, a cherished friend, and a forever Boilermaker fan. His infectious smile and laughter had the power to fill a room with joy. The family wishes to thank the nursing staff at Waldo County General Hospital and Drs. Mollison, Ellison, Lydon, Helmholz, LaMarche, and especially Dr Toby Atkins as well as the many friends who offered support in recent months.

In memory of Tom, contributions by check may be made to Belfast Area High School, Attn: Thomas King Scholarship, 25 Lions Way, Belfast, ME 04915, in support of environmental studies scholarship, to Hampden Academy, Attn: Athletic Director Barry Terrill, 89 Western Avenue, Hampden, ME 04444, check memo line “Thomas King Ice Hockey”, and/or to Belfast Bay Watershed Coalition Attn: Gene Randall, PO Box 152, Belfast ME 04915, check memo line "Fish Friends Family"

A celebration of life will take place at the Bayview Point Event Center, 15 Front St, Belfast Maine from 2 - 4pm on Sunday, October 1. Memories and condolences may also be shared on his tribute wall.

"May your heart always be joyful and may your song always be sung." - Bob Dylan