Carl Woodrow King

Carl Woodrow King, of Lafayette, Indiana, born on July 4, 1946 passed away on December 4, 2025. For 55 years, Carl was devoted to the love of his life, Mary, and together they built a beautiful life filled with family, laughter, and countless memories.

Carl had a passion for anything with wheels-motorcycles, dirt bikes, go-karts-if it went fast, he loved it. He proudly taught all three of his daughters how to ride. Known as a gifted mechanic, Carl could fix absolutely anything, often in under 30 minutes. His daughters joked that he could install an entire engine blindfolded, and they weren't far off. A true jack of all trades, Carl had a natural ability to repair, build, or invent anything that needed doing.

A die-hard Ford man through and through, Carl rarely missed a race. His favorite driver was always Bill Elliott, and after Bill's retirement, he continued cheering faithfully for his son, Chase Elliott. Carl also adored his grandchildren, who were his entire world. They could often be found riding the "go-gos" (go-karts) with him, creating memories they will cherish forever. Though the family always had a pool, Carl never learned to swim-something that still brings smiles and gentle laughs to his family.

Carl served his country with pride. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1965, right out of high school, and served honorably in Vietnam.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mary King; his daughters Rhonda King of Lafayette, Charlette (Mike) Smelcer of Lafayette, and Denise (John) Ricks of Lafayette; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and his sister, Pam Hayworth of Otterbein, IN. He was preceded in death by his parents, Woodrow and Martha King, and three siblings.

Carl was known for his thrifty humor-his daughters fondly remember him "pinching the dollars several times" before passing out their lunch money, just to be sure no two bills were stuck together. The memory now brings them smiles and laughter, a reflection of his personality and love.

Services with Military Honors will be held Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at Tippecanoe Funeral and Cremation Services, 1671 W. 350 N., West Lafayette, IN 47906.

Visitation will be from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM, with the funeral service beginning at 12:30 PM. Burial will immediately follow at Tippecanoe Memory Gardens.