RAPID CITYRobert Paul King, Sr., a 50-year resident of Rapid City, died Tuesday, September 2, 2008, at Rapid City Regional Hospital. Bob is survived by his wife of 62 years, Emma, his sister, Patricia (Don) Engel, his children; Barbara Ripple, Robert, Jr. (Kay), Ginger Novstrup (Vern); his grandchildren, Wendy, Julian, Mandie, Heather, Kathleen, Megan, Aaron and Austin, great-grandchildren, Jamie, Bryanna, Tamson, Lucas and Corwin, and numerous nephews and nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Rosalie King, his brothers, Allen (Peggy Jane) King and Len (Judith) King and his daughter Paulette Rose. He was born to Paul and Rosalie King in Hartford City, Indiana on January 22, 1919. Bob graduated from Huron High School in 1938. Bob enlisted in the 109th Engineers of the South Dakota National Guard and began training in February of 1942. Following training he was sent to Belfast, Northern Ireland, then on to Liverpool, England, North Africa and Italy, including Anzio Beachhead, for 642 days on the frontlines. Bob was discharged from active duty in 1945. He was wed to Emma Jane Wilson of Miller on December 16th, 1945. During the Korean Conflict, Bob joined the 196th Infantry Regiment of the South Dakota National Guard and was discharged in 1952. He graduated from Huron College in 1957. Bob became a true advocate of Veterans Rights and Benefits as a member of the American Legion for 61 years and the Veterans of Foreign Wars for 48 years. Bob was also a member of the Masonic Lodge and an active member of the 40 et 8. He served as Commander of VFW Post 1273 for 2 years and Quartermaster for 4 years. Additionally, Bob was a member of Seam Squirrel of the Military Order of the Cooties. He served as State All-American District 10 Commander for Post 1273. Bob was a past deputy of volunteer services at the V. A. Hospital and past long time Poppy chairman of the House Committee for Post 1273. He was a regular volunteer at the Ft. Meade V.A. Hospital and the Hot Springs State Soldiers Home. Bob was the February 2005 Veteran of the month for the Rapid City Journal. Visitation will be held Thursday, September 4, 2008, from 5:00 until 7:00 pm at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home in Rapid City. Services will be held at 10:30 am, Friday, September 5, 2008 at Canyon Lake United Methodist Church with Rev. Bob Ruedebusch officiating. Interment will be at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis with Military Honors provided by Rushmore VFW Post 1273. Memorials may be made to the donors choice.