Vaughn W. King, age 76, of McCook passed away at the El Dorado Manor in Trenton on May 31, 2023. He was born in Hastings, Nebraska on November 8, 1946, to James M. and Evelyn (Cobb) King. Known to many by the nickname “Boots,” Vaughn attended and graduated from Hastings High School. He furthered his education at Hastings College, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in science.
On July 10, 1971, Vaughn was united in marriage to Linda Zook. To this union 4 children were born: Mike, Libby, Chris, and Mandy. Linda preceded him in death on December 12, 1996.
Following college, Vaughn pursued work in the field of waste water management in the state of Colorado where he grew to love the mountains. However, a job opportunity with the City of McCook’s Utilities Department led him back to Nebraska where he eventually served as the city's Utilities Director. He retired from the City after 20+ years. Vaughn then worked for Wal-Mart until his 70th birthday in November of 2016.
Vaughn’s hobbies included painting and music. While he was in college he joined a band as a guitarist, playing popular music from the era for school dances and other functions. He continued to play throughout his life for the enjoyment of his family and friends, as well as leading the church's worship team for many years. Vaughn liked to listen to many of his favorite recording artists including John Denver, The Beatles, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Willie Nelson, and other old time country musicians.
He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Evelyn; wife, Linda; brother, James “Terry” King; sister, Adaire Toms; great grandson, Orion Vaughn Silva.
Vaughn is survived by his two daughters, Libby (Jeremy) Hartwell of Hastings, Mandy (Shawn Knoll) King of McCook; two sons, Mike (Dawn Bond) King of Loveland, CO, Chris (Michelle) King of Lincoln, NE; seven grandchildren, Zach Hartwell, Nate Hartwell, Shaylee Hartwell, Conner King, Mackenzie King, Melody King, Dylan Bond; and one great grandchild, Shae Palmer.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 9, 2023, at 10:00 AM at the Cornerstone Fellowship Church with Pastor Rob Putz officiating. To celebrate Vaughn's love for music, the family invites those attending to wear music- or band-related attire. Interment will be in the Memorial Park Cemetery in McCook. Visitation will be held on Thursday June 8, 2023, from 10:00 AM until 7:00 PM at the Herrmann Jones Funeral Chapel. The family will be present to greet friends from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM. Friends may leave online condolences at herrmannfh.com