Mervin Paul King

KING, Mervin Paul Retired Captain for the Los Angeles Police Dept. passed away on March 18, 2008 in South Pasadena, CA. He was born August 1, 1914 in San Francisco as the only child to the late George and Geneva King. Spending the greater part of his life as a resident of Alhambra, CA, he was dedicated to his wife, Pauline, of nearly 68 years; and their family, including children, Terence Michael, Thomas Patrick, and Kathryn Mary (Brandlin). He honorably served in combat in the Pacific Theatre of World War II on both the USS Hutchins, a Fletcher-class destroyer and the USS Markab, a destroyer tender. Appointed in 1946 as a Policeman for the LAPD, and appointed Captain in 1970, he completed 30 years of service upon retiring in 1976. Throughout his service in the Los Angeles Police Department, he received more than 50 commendations from both Department and outside agencies for his dedication to duty and recognition from outside law enforcement agencies. He never once received a personnel complaint. His recognition included that of the Los Angeles City Council for supervising the investigation of the Alphabet Bomber and the improvised-explosive-device detonated at Los Angeles International Airport. Commanding police efforts in the 1974 S.L.A. shootout led him to be commended by the City Council again for his supervision of the Symbionese Liberation Army investigation, one which "broke the back and thrust of the SLA". An admirable leader in law enforcement, he will be remembered most for his genuine soul characterized by selfless compassion, commitment, and charming wit. We will never forget his loyalty to his Catholic faith, his impeccable knowledge of baseball game schedules, his enjoyment of golf at Almansor Golf Course, and the love that flowed inherently outward with his voice. He is survived, loved, and missed by his wife, Pauline; children, Terry and Pam King, Tom and Margie King, and Kathy and Steve Brandlin; grandchildren, Kimberly, Brian and Aleasha, Christopher, Laura, Kelly, Annie, Katie, and Krissy; great-grandchildren, Michael, Luke, Megan, Garrett, and Grant, in addition to a lifetime of neighbors and friends. Services have been scheduled at Calvary Mortuary and are as follows: Tuesday, March 25, 2008. Viewing: 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Mass, 12:45 p.m. Interment to follow immediately after services at Calvary Cemetery.