Karl Von Choice

Born on October 6, 1937, in North Korea, Karl and his family fled to South Korea during the Korean War. He was the first in his family to immigrate to the United States. He braved the unknown to pursue his college degree through a soccer scholarship from Roanoke College. He later received his Master's degree from the University of Oklahoma. He then enlisted and served in the U.S. Army for two years. He returned to Korea, where he met and married his wife, Won Soh Kim. They returned to the United States and settled in Northern Virginia raising their three children: Curtis Choice, Julie Hosler, and Vivian Youn.

Karl spent 37 years working for the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Outside of his professional life, Karl was known for his love of gardening, singing hymns and Ave Maria, swimming, tennis, and cycling. He also enjoyed volunteering as an usher at the Kennedy Center and traveled extensively across the U.S. for his job, cherishing every interaction and every bite of the local fare. He will be remembered for his famous rainbow arc basketball hook shots in the driveway, his death-defying walking handstands off the highest diving board, and his Camp Choice Parenting style which often foiled his children's plans to sleep in and be idle on the weekends. Karl retired from civil service to Corinth, TX. His days were filled with swimming at the Denton Natatorium, traveling with his wife and best friend, sitting on his patio encouraging golfers teeing off steps from his backyard, and admiring the sunrise and sunsets.

He is survived by his wife, Won, and their three adult children, as well as their eight cherished grandchildren: Spencer and Eli Choice; Calvin, Quincy, and Silas Hosler; Jocelyn, Molly, and Nathan Youn. He also leaves behind siblings referred to as Kun Ah Bogi, Ohio Uncle, and Aunt Gomo. He will join his youngest brother, New York Uncle.

Karl's warmth, humor, and unwavering love for his family, friends, faith, and country will be deeply missed. A private memorial service celebrating his life will be held November 27, 2024 with his immediate family.