Karl Honsberger

1934 - 2021

Karl Honsberger
07/13/2021
It is with great sadness that the family of Karl Honsberger announces his passing on July 13, 2021 at the age of 86. In true Karl form, he fought like a lion until his very last breath. In his final weeks and days, he was surrounded by loved ones while family and friends visited and called frequently to share old stories and to say I love you. The son of Chester William and Jeanette Davis Honsberger, Karl was born in Bronxville, New York on October 6, 1934.He grew up in Briarcliff, New York and went on to attend Colby College in Waterville, Maine, graduating with a degree in History in 1957. Joining the Marine Corps after college, he served active duty and remained in the USMC Reserves for 17 years, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. He began his business career in marketing for Southern New England Telephone, going on to a dedicated 30-year career with Allstate insurance, retiring in 1999.
Karl will forever be remembered by his loving wife, Pam, of 37 years and his children Jeffrey Honsberger, Jill Gibson (John) and Kristin Honsberger. He was the proud grandfather of Evan Honsberger (Cara), Ian Honsberger (Morgan), Alyssa Broughton (Timothy), Eric Weeks, Jameson Altieri (Katelynn), Elizabeth Honsberger, William Pollard and Samuel Pollard. Karl also leaves behind four great-grandchildren Olivia, Isla, Miles and Wiley and nephew Peter Nils Honsberger (Janice) and niece Lisa Sortevik (Terry) and their children. Karl was predeceased by his brother Peter Honsberger, sister-in-law Elin Marie (Chris) Honsberger and their son Christopher Eric Honsberger as well as his daughter in-law Sarah Wells Honsberger.
Karl's heart was never far from the mountains of Virginia where his parents had retired and many fond, family memories were made. Karl raised his family in Guilford, Connecticut with his former wife, Kay Stanwood Honsberger. He went on to live in New Hampshire, Vermont, and Ormond Beach, Florida, making great friends and memories everywhere he went. Karl was always active in his community as part of the Human Rights Commission of Connecticut, President of the Chamber of Commerce in Amherst, New Hampshire, The American Cancer Society and his beloved church.
Karl had an enthusiasm for life that was contagious. He enjoyed golfing, cycling and gardening. He was an accomplished sailor and became a runner long before it was popular. Karl ran a top notch kitchen at home. His floors were so well polished that one could slide clear across the house with a good push. He was a first rate conversationalist who took a deep interest in history, local politics and the lives of his family and friends. Karl's renowned sense of humor, endless energy and intellect will be missed by all.
There will be a service of remembrance at the First Congregational Church in Center Randolph, VT. on September 17, 2021 at 11:30 am. To be followed, there will be a graveside service at Vermont Veteran's Cemetery in Randolph VT. at 1:00 pm. Family and friends are welcome to attend a gathering afterward.
In memory of Karl, donations may be made to your local Salvation Army for disaster relief or the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, 909 North Washington Street, Suite 400 Alexandria, VA 22314.