Obituary of Richard J. King

Halfmoon – Richard J. King, 78, of Halfmoon, NY, passed away on Saturday, November 30, 2024 at Van Rensselaer Manor following his battle with Parkinson's. Richard was born in Troy, NY in 1946 a son of the late Franklin A. and Angeline M. (DeConno) King. He was also predeceased by a nephew, Jeffrey Redwine. Richard graduated from Heatley High School in Green Island, NY with the class of '65. Following graduation, he enlisted in the US Army, where he served dutifully and with distinction until his honorable discharge in 1967. While enlisted, he earned several medals of distinction, including rifle mastery of both the M-14 and M-16, a Vietnam Service Medal, and a National Defense medal. After Richard's discharge he went to work for the Selkirk General Electric plant, working as a Hazardous Material Handler on the loading docks, a position he held for over 20 years. When Richard was not at work, he had many hobbies. He was an active member of the Drum Corps for many years and enjoyed bird watching and hunting. Richard enjoyed taking trips and made it a point to try new restaurants wherever he went. He always enjoyed eating, but as much as he loved to eat, he also loved to cook. He was especially known for his mastery of his mother's eggplant parmesan recipe, a frequent request at different functions. While travelling, Richard enjoyed being near the water. Sitting on the beach, hiking the mountains near a stream, or simply fishing, if it was near the water, Richard was at peace. He also enjoyed some quieter times at home, reading about history or astronomy, listening to all kinds of music, collecting baseball caps, and not so quietly cheering on his beloved New York Yankees. Richard was also deeply passionate about aiding others with Parkinson's Disease. Above all else, Richard loved his family and friends. Richard is survived by his wife: Cynthia J. Petker; a son: Jason (Kathryn) Kelts; a grandson: Alexander; his twin sister: Katherine (Robert) Haskin; another sister: Donna (Randy) Redwine; his niece: Rachel Collet; a nephew: Matthew (Lisa) Haskin; and three great nieces and nephews: Connor (Laci) Haskin, Kiera Haskin, and TJ Collet. A visitation for Richard will be held from 10:00 am until 12 Noon on Monday, December 9, 2024 at Catricala Funeral Home, 1597 Route 9 Clifton Park, NY 12065, followed immediately by a funeral service at Noon. Burial will take place at GBHS Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY after the funeral. Donations may be made in memory of Richard to Help for Parkinson's, 505 Crooks Grove Road, Ballston Spa, NY 12020, or online at helpforpd.org.