Dennis Walter Karl

Dennis is survived by daughter, Viki (Tom); daughter, Kim; son, Kevin (Tanya); grandchildren, April (Eric), Matthew (Danielle), Deannah (Nick), Brandon, and Kaitlyn; great-children, Kaylie, Zach and Jaxon; sister, Joan Sanders; nephew, John Sanders and niece, Linda Huege.

Dennis was born on November 13, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois, to Rose Plombon and Walter Karl. He grew up in Chicago. He spent much of his youth playing sports, and listening to his favorite radio programs (Flash Gordon, The Lone Ranger, and The Green Hornet). Growing up near Wrigley Field he often enjoyed catching a Cubs game, sometimes sneaking in to see them. He enjoyed a 40+ year career as a painting and wallpaper installation professional, a trade he initially learned from his father. He enjoyed a long 25+ year retirement, having spent the first part of it resting his tired knees and enjoying the company of his best friend Peggy. He truly earned his retirement and enjoyed it to its fullest.

He and Peggy made their home in Wisconsin in the cities of Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, Augusta and Grafton. The north woods and lakes of Wisconsin suited him perfectly. He spent many wonderful times with his family fishing and hunting in the beautiful outdoors. He loved Lake Helen most of all; it held a special place in his heart. He loved old westerns, the Green Bay Packers, the Wisconsin Badgers and Hallmark movies - especially Christmas themed episodes.

He had a great love for family and friends, and asked everyone to call him, “Grandpa.” He was an honorable and kind man of good taste and manners. He savored many a delicious meal at his favorite restaurant, “The Village Squire,” in Crystal Lake, Illinois. He made many friends there over the years, and made a yearly visit to Macy’s every Christmas to purchase special chocolates as gifts for them. In Texas he made new friends at, “Rise & Shine Café.” When he was no longer able to visit the restaurant as often as he liked, the staff brought food to and visited with him, and one of the young ladies trimmed his hair to keep him looking dapper.

Grandpa made donations to many charities over the years, but St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital was near and dear to his heart. In lieu of flowers, donations in memoriam may be made to St. Jude’s.

Internment and memorial services are TBD. Information will be shared with the family and updated here.