Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine recently announced the passing of John M. King, DVM, a professor emeritus of pathology. He was 89. “Dr. King was a legend in Anatomic Pathology,” said Elizabeth Buckles, DVM, clinical associate professor of pathology. “A large number of current pathologists were either trained by him or were trained by his trainees, and there are legions of vet students who were inspired by him.” King came to Cornell in 1955 and worked at the vet college for 50 years, during which time he authored three textbooks and published numerous papers. King spent his sabbaticals in foreign countries that invited him to teach and do applied research. Over the years he earned a reputation for ground-breaking insights into disease, the college noted. “John was the unrivalled master of observation and perhaps the finest pure pathologist our field has ever known,” said longtime friend Bruce Williams, DVM. Dr. King, according to the college, was famous for his necropsy “Show and Tell” events. He challenged students and faculty to identify diseases by looking at affected tissue. “Even at 5:00 on a Friday afternoon, the risers were always packed and it was standing room only,” Dr. Williams said. King is survived by his wife, Marie Ryan King of Ithaca. There will be a memorial service May 12 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Sage Chapel on the Cornell campus. The service is open to the public. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the charity of one’s choice.
