Racine – William Francis Karls (Bill), age 89, passed away peacefully at Ascension – All Saints Hospital on Monday, December 5, 2016.

A lifetime resident of Racine, Bill was born on June 27, 1927 to the late Frank and Magdaline (nee: Griffith) Karls. He graduated from St. Catherine's High School in 1945. Bill faithfully and proudly served our country with US Navy Seabees.

In 1948, he was united in marriage with Rose Marie (nee: Ozowski) Karls, who preceded him in death in 1981. In 1982, Bill married Martha "Marty" (nee: Brown) Karls. He was employed for over 30 years at Twin Disc. Bill was a longtime member of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church.

Among his interests, he enjoyed camping, and served for 10 years as a volunteer for the Special Olympics through his membership in the Good Sams Camping Club; he also enjoyed golfing, bowling, dancing and big band music. A fun-loving family man, Bill was known for his quirky sense of humor.

Surviving are his wife, Marty; children, Linda Karls, Larry Karls, Debbie Peasley, Mary (Robert) Becker, Patrick Karls, Jay (Pati Brawner) Karls, David (Peggi) Mutsch and Debbie Griffiths; 13 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to his parents and first wife, Bill was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Dave Peasley; daughter-in-law, Karen Karls; and brother, Jack Karls.

Visitation will be at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 6400 Spring Street in Racine on Tuesday, December 13, 2016 from 9:30 – 11:00 am. A Memorial Mass will follow at 11:00 am at the church, with Rev. Terrance J. Huebner officiating. Entombment, with military honors, will follow at the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Memorials to the Racine Veterans Outreach Program have been suggested.

A heartfelt note of thanks to the entire staff at Ascension – All Saints Hospital and to Becker Shoop Nursing Home.

Service Details

Memorial Mass: Tuesday, December 13, 2016 at 11 am in St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, 6400 Spring Street

Visitation: at the church on Tuesday from 9:30 – 11:00 am

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