Kenneth G Karls 07/20/1933 – 07/17/2024
Kenneth passed away comfortably in the care of Hospice House Kenosha. He was a loving, kind and generous Father, friend and follower of Jesus Christ.
Ken was born in McHenry, IL. He served in the US Air Force as an airplane mechanic overseas in Germany. After ultimately moving to Kenosha, he married Gloria Pfaff Karls and they had 6 children.
Overcoming addiction through the help of God and AA, he helped many who struggled as well, to get and maintain their sobriety, as a sponsor and friend.
There he met his 2nd wife Kathryn (Kay) Karls and embraced her 3 adult children as well. They traveled worldwide over the years and together shared the love of golf and warm weather. Eventually moving to Florida full time. After her death, he returned to Kenosha to be close to family.
Through the years he had a love for motorcycles, golf, skiing, bicycling and always stayed fit. A testimony to his long life.
After a powerful spiritual awakening in the 1980’s, Ken became born again and developed a deep personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. He was an active participant in any church he was part of by greeting, ushering, small groups and other volunteer activities. And always praying. His heart was that all would come to know Him and experience Him in all His fullness.
Surviving family members include his children, Kathy Karls, William Karls, Jimmy Karls, Bobby Karls and Sheri Karls. Also stepchildren, Sandra Schmidt, Karen Eckert and John Schmidt. He was preceded in death by wife Kathryn Karls, son, Steven Karls and his brothers and sisters.
A celebration of his Life memorial will take place August 4th at Kenosha Bible Church (5405 67th St. Kenosha, WI). Starting at 1 PM. Dinner to follow at the Fireside Restaurant (2891 30th Ave, Kenosha, WI).
Paul & Debi says:
A life well lived indeed. We were honored to know him & we will continue to keep you all in our prayers.
Art Osinga says:
I had the privilege of getting to know Ken approximately 2 to 3 years ago. I don’t think I’ve known many 90-year-olds but I was blessed to become one of Ken‘s friends. He was almost 20 years older than I am, but I was impressed with his alertness and the way he was willing to take on the challenges of the later years of life. we both had a common enemy that we were struggling with called Parkinson’s disease. Even though that brought certain limitations he didn’t let that define him. He was a born again, believer in Jesus Christ and was willing to get together with fellow believers when the opportunities permitted. I would pick him up for Tuesday morning, breakfast with a group of guys which he really enjoyed until he wasn’t able to join us anymore. Then it was our turn to visit him on Tuesday, which we did and enjoyed the visit with him at home. I remember that he had a long prayer list on his computer that he took time to go down name by name and pray for everyone on his list, I’m sure many of you were included. He ran the race of life within endurance and enthusiasm And finished well. Even though his body grew tired and weary, his spirit was strong and alive. It’s been a blessing, knowing him and I’m looking forward to seeing him again in the presence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Until we meet again, your friend and brother in Jesus Christ, Art.
Jon Lyons says:
As Chaplain for the American Legion Post 21 and the Sons of The American Legion Squadron 21 in Kenosha Wisconsin, I’d like to say thank you for your service and God bless you, your family, and your friends. You’re all in my prayers. Just remember he was a gift from God and knowing him was even a bigger gift. 🙏🏻🫡
Tamara evans says:
Thank you for an opportunity to be loved, supported, guided, and led by Spirit. You will always be remembered in a special way and special prayers for you and your family. God bless, rest in His arms-they are never too short. With sincere love and gratitude, I go to prepare a place, that ye may be there also Tamara Evans