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Karl Kassulke Obituary
Kassulke died Sunday in his Eagan home from a heart attack, the team confirmed.
Kassulke spent all 10 years of his career with the Vikings from 1963-72 and was considered one of the hardest-hitting defensive backs in franchise history. He started in the 1970 Super Bowl loss to Kansas City and was named to the Pro Bowl the following season.
His career was cut short just before training camp in 1973 when he was paralyzed in a motorcycle accident that kept him in a wheelchair for the rest of his life. His wife, Sue, was a nurse who helped him through rehabilitation.
Copyright © 2008 The Associated Press
67 Entries
Brent W
December 3, 2020
As a Viking fan for over 50 yrs you will always be a part of me and so many great memories . Thank you Karl...... Rest In Peace my brother. Brent W.
Camille
December 16, 2019
Sue, I am thinking of you. Live to send you a card- cant read my handwriting for your numbers if your address. I have the street....I was just reading about Karl...and remembering how much John and I loved him !!!
David Dumford
March 30, 2017
Back in the '70s I remember hearing a booming laugh as Karl came wheeling around the corner at 7th Street in downtown Minneapolis.He knew how to enjoy life and give joy to all around him-What a wonderful guy.Dave
November 10, 2015
Back in the 70's I worked in part of Karl Kassulke's Bruiser's Pub in Rochester MN. He came in one evening in his chair and was immediately surrounded by patrons/fans. He took the time to greet and speak to as many as possible. He was friendly and upbeat. Everyone that worked there had great respect for him. I was saddened to hear of his passing but the testimonies of those who have still taken time to remember him, even these years later,is impressive. It speaks to more than a football hero, it speaks to his character.
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Jim Patterson
January 31, 2015
I met Karl Kassulke when I was about 13 years old. I sat in the front row of my social studies class at Woodrow Wilson Jr High in Des Moines Iowa. Karl was doing his student teaching from Drake University and I had the good fortune of being in his class.
Besides his size compared to a 13 year old what I remember most was his kindness to this lippy little kid in the front row.
To this day I am proud to tell the story of meeting him and the kindness he showed me and to remind people of his great career in both college and with the Vikings.
I was sad to learn of his passing..RIP
S.C. Maitoza
January 19, 2015
As a boy, your football card photo was on my wall among many of my beloved Vikings. After your accident, I'll never forget seeing you at old Met Stadium on "Karl Kassulke Day". Those images are vivid, just like your autographed book I recently purchased (used). In it was an inscription: "...I'm glad our paths finally crossed. I hope the reading of my book blesses you.." (Signed Karl Kassulke). I just want to say that while we never met, in spirit you have given me, and my family, true blessings and many, many great memories! May you R.I.P., forever living in the hearts of those you've touched!
you were one of a kind and i wish the steelers had you in the secondary
Paul New
January 6, 2015
karl,I didn't know until today that you left us.a friend from mankota told me...never forget the night I was singing at Jerry Dutlers club.I was doing my tribute to Roberto Clemente A song I had recently written and the next thing i know i'm in the air,damn you were strong..after you terrible accident i used to visit you in the hospital alot.you gave me a football and signed it and its on the cover of an album i did.showing you how to stop hiccuping was so funny.you thought i was nuts but i can still see the smile on your face when it worked..RIP KARL sorry I didn'
t know until 2015 that you had left us....Paul
Michael Anderson
November 10, 2014
I met both Paul Krause and Karl at a golf pro-am event in Iowa City. I was a big fan of the Vikings and their defense. My condolences to the family and friends who knew him well. R.I.P
David Livingston
November 5, 2014
I was fortunate enough to meet Karl while painting his house back in the 1990s. He was funny and kind, and had great football stories that to this day I still remember. Rest in Peace Karl, thank you and God bless.
JJ Fowler
March 27, 2014
I have been a NFL fan for along time and remember the '69 Vikings ball club very well, as at the time I was a LA Rams fan and watched in pain as the Vikes beat my Rams 23-20 in the playoffs. But I had a lot of respect for Karl and his hard hitting style. I even managed to get his autograph on a Vikings helmet back in 2006 or so. Thank you for all the memories and always rest in peace.
deane bray
January 30, 2014
karl rip one of minnesotas if not the hardest hitting back I ever seen and a good man . I grew up with you as an idol in Minnesota
Maureen Wiecks
November 21, 2013
I remember adoring u as a little girl growing up with brothers. U were outstanding! I recall the sadness I felt when u had ur motorcycle accident . I was so worried about u!! RIP!
October 20, 2013
I was a waitress at Lincoln Del in Bloomington, MN and waited on Karl and his wife in the late 70s. I still remember him in his wheelchair, so positive and interested in everyone around him, so kind. I wasn't a football fan, didn't know who he was til that moment, but I never forgot him because of his radiating positive energy. God Bless you, Karl, and God bless your family.
For Karl Kassulke Family
HH ITO
March 23, 2013
Sorry for belated words: I was watching recently purchased VIKING HIST Team DVD, Tough Joe, Ed theRocSharockman, 88,77,81,20,22, but then I remembered the REAL Viking Guts, the guy you NEVER WANTED TO HIT YOU!
Real Viking Warrior, REAL man,…. whenever I feel sorry for myself with back surgery, over pain…. I remember the REAL VIKING WARRIOR, riding to Valhalla! Rest easy now Karl, no more pain my beloved friend. And a huge shootout to Dr/Mrs Jan, Karl couldn't have lasted without your special love; Micah 6:8
-HarveyFanSince1967
Rochelle Baumann
October 9, 2012
I heard of Karl's death about
a year ago, I just finally was able to find this information
here to leave this message..
My name is Rochelle,
I met Karl when I worked
with a cleaning service, and
was delighted to know him.
He was so friendly, and funny, he would follow me
and tease me..
I did not mind, I enjoyed him
and , the last time I was
there, I was going to ask for his autograph but did not,
I am now regretting that.
I guess I was too chicken..
I was sad to hear of his death.
God bless his family.
and sorry it has taken me
until now to do this...
Sandy McDonald
July 27, 2012
I met Mr. Kassulke in 1976. It was at a banquet for donators to a youth minnistry. I was 17 years old, and pregnant. I was in a crowd of people that were standing and I had to sit on a bench to rest. When I sat down, Mr. Kassulke wheeled over and talked to me. I felt God using him to speak to me, and remember it to this day. Thank you Mr. Kassulke, you were a man of God. Mou rest in peace.
Dave Montray
May 17, 2012
Rest in peace Mr. Kassulke.
Tonee Kassulke
April 27, 2012
Karl is my family. I never met him, but heard he was great. I just love to know he had a life happy, doing what he loved (football)
Paul Bergen
December 28, 2010
i'm sorry it has taken me so long to respond to the news of Karl's death . Karl and I were very good friends when we attended West Milwaukee together in the early 60s - he was my best friend and companion - It is always with laughter that I remember the times we had together - my heart felt sympathy to his Family.
Sincerely,
Paul Bergen (Olympic Swim Coach)
Pastor Don Kinn
December 22, 2010
I came accross on the web site about Karl Kassulke passing away. I am the ambulance paramedic that was instrumental in saving his life. I had not seen Karl since that day he was injured and the trip to the hospital in the back of the ambulance. We were only a few blocks away when we received the call and if we had not arrived as soon as we did Karl would have not survived. God had a plan for his life. I prayed for Karl while carrying out emergency procedures to save his life. It was a miracle he lived.
I have now heard about the wonderful things Karl has done and his courage. Also his relationship with Jesus Christ.
The great thing with Jesus is he gives us hope where there seems to be no hope, love where there is no love and faith when everything else seems to be lost. What a tremendous testimony Karl has left all of us with, to never give up.
There was that day that I helped Karl and today as I write this it warms my heart to hear of this great man and his bravery.
I look forward to seeing him again in heaven.
Kevin Corum
December 21, 2010
I met Karl Kassulke in 1974. I was an 11 year old boy then. It was at a charity basketball game. The Vikings were taking on a team of radio personalities here. Karl was there in his wheel chair rooting for the Vikes. It was an honor to meet him. I have never forgotten him and the positive outlook he had. RIP Mr. Kassulke.
Michael Bonnema
February 22, 2010
The most beautiful fact of Karl's life is that he and his wife found faith in Jesus. To testify to that faith is the greatest love of all. Even so come Lord Jesus....soon!
Fran Haefner
January 30, 2010
My condolences to his family. I grew up rooting for any team that played the Cowboys and I really enjoyed watching the Purple People Eaters with Karl & Paul hitting the players coming across the middle. When Karl had his motorcycloe accident it was probably the first time I, as a ten year old, ever realized that pro athletes were mortal after all.
December 12, 2009
It's strange the people who touch our lives and who we remember and why.
I was saddened to hear of his motorcycle accident in '73 and his death recently in the Drake University alumni news.
While it is a time of sadness for all who knew him, sometimes a bit of "lightness" helps one to cope.
We were in a Biology class at Drake University. The in-class assignment was to prick our fingers, draw some blood and type it. Well, Karl, big, strong, football guy, couldn't do it. I had to do it for him. He couldn't even watch.
Every time I hear his name, whether during his outstanding football career, his accident and, now, his death, I think of that class and I have to smile.
Thanks, Karl, for being that reminder that all of us have our weaknesses and that all of us can bring a smile to someone else's face.
Aron Olson
August 21, 2009
I had the pleasure of shaking his hand at a sporting good store in downtown Minnepolis.
Matthew Kassulke
February 4, 2009
RIP Karl we never met but are distant relatives in Australia. named my first son after you. May he hold up the name 1/2 as well as you sir.
Jack Lewerenz
November 9, 2008
I will never forget the time I met you
and your wife some years ago at
your house in Eagan. You signed
some things for me that I will cherish
forever. My sympathy to your wife
and family. May you rest in heaven
forever. God Bless You.
Maggie Scipioni
November 7, 2008
Karl was one of a kind. He made life so much more positive and he is always a day brightener. I will miss his laugh and smile, but will continue to look for it up in heaven. I Love You karl!!!!!
Jeff Burgess
November 2, 2008
God Bless the Kassulke family. Thanks Carl for all those dedicated years to the team. I wish we could get more players like Carl for the VIkes now.
God Bless.
Jeff Burgess
Lynchburg, Va.
ramon soliz
November 2, 2008
you were just drafted by the lord,rest in pease.
louis carwell
November 1, 2008
rest in peace.
paul smith
November 1, 2008
karl will be sorrly missed no only as a great mn viking but as a great speaker and friend i will always cherish the time i met him thanks for the memories RIP, chester
William and Lisa McQueen
November 1, 2008
Rest in peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Tony Lordi
November 1, 2008
Karl,
You were an inspiration to the many fans & friends watching the NFL
on Sundays. Your former teamate Jim Marshall said it & I have to agree with him that you were without a doubt a true gentleman on/off the field & always gave 100% if not not more. RIP Karl you are with your new club called the "ANGELS". To your family our condolences go out to your all on the loss of wonderful human being.
Loreen (Ferrero) Bishop
November 1, 2008
Dear Sue, You may not remember me, but in the summer of 1979 I came to your home fundraising for a ministry I worked with by selling Christian music albums--most of them for children. You and Karl were so generous with your time, and shared Karl's story--his accident and your meeting each other when you were his nurse. He even showed me his trophies. You may think it odd I remember you both, but your kindness and generosity (you bought 1 of each album I had) made such an impression on me. I happened to be looking for the obituary of a friend, and stumbled on that of Karl. I was saddened to read of his sudden passing at such a young age. Please accept the sympathy of one of the many who were moved by Karl's story.
Paul Larsen
October 31, 2008
My sympathy goes out to Karl's family. Several things come to mind when I think of Karl. As a teenager I remember watching him really make monster awesome hits on ball carriers in the secondary. I had him sign a picture back in his playing days. I remember walking to the Dome, and I hear that one of a kind famous laugh, and before I turned around I knew who it was rolling along behind me having fun. As a neighbor of the Scipioni's there were many times when I could hear him laughing across the street, what a day brightener. Last year, I asked him to sign an old football I have with other Vikings signatures from when he played. He was happy to do so and enjoyed looking at the names of the players from his day. God Bless Karl, I am sure he is up there having some laughs, and catching up with those who left ahead of him.
J D
October 31, 2008
May your memories bring you comfort and your faith heal your grief. Prayers to your family from a Kansas City Chiefs Fan
Connecticut, USA
October 31, 2008
And there goes KARL, he's going, going......he's gone, through the Pearly Gates. Touchdown !!
Rest in peace Viking, it was great knowing you.
Thomas Widgeon
October 31, 2008
Jesus Loves Me!!!
Sharon Behr (Huddon)
October 30, 2008
Karl and I were Snow Ball King & Queen @ West Milwaukee High School. We shared many happy times. The last time I saw Karl was at a party he had at his home while I was visiting friends in MN. I was so looking forward to seeing him at our 50th class reunion next September.
My deepest condolences to his wonderful Family.
Jon Lazar
October 30, 2008
I was in 9th grade and met Karl and several other pro players while attending the Upper Iowa Football in Fayette Iowa. Mike Eschieds college. We had Karl, Jim Otto, Ben Davidson, Mike Reilly and several other pro players. Karl was my favorite.. He taught us that week and I loved his personality and the way he played the game. I followed him proudly throughout his Viking Career... I moved to Minneapolis where I lived for 17 years before moving to NC. A great man and one who touched many on and off the field. God Bless Karl and thank you for all the wonderful highlights and memories.
October 30, 2008
Fans from as far away as Maine will always remember you, Karl...
Love you, man.
alain
Art Devine
October 30, 2008
Karl and I go way back. Back to the old days of hanging out and listening to Led Zeppelin together. Rest in peace brother!
Matt Felber
October 30, 2008
I meet Karl when I was 9 he was the nicest man then and that made me a true viking fan.
May you rest in peace and run like the wind in heaven
Adam Smith
October 30, 2008
We are very sorry for your loss and our prays go with you and your family.
Mr & Mrs Adam Smith
D. ZIMMERMAN
October 30, 2008
REST IN PEACE KARL KASSULKE
ANNA LOUISE
October 30, 2008
REST IN PEACE KARL KASSULKE
SHEILA SMITH
October 30, 2008
Rest in Peace Karl. God bless the family.
Ward Morris
October 29, 2008
My condolences to the Kassulke family. I grew up in Anoka a Viking fan and later moved to the Omaha, NE area where we went to see a number of the Viking players in a charity basketball game, with Karl as the announcer after his accident. As Karl would have said, "Dynamite and outta sight". Another sad loss for the Viking family.
Dick King
October 29, 2008
My condolences to the Kassulke family. It was great to read that Karl remained a "down to earth" individual throughout his life. I was a freshman at Drake University when he was a senior and the star football player. I did not know him. I did not play football or have any connection with him. I did, however, wash dishes and clean tables in the dining hall where he ate some of his meals. He acknowledged me while I was working and was courteous. One or two years later he returned to Campus and came to the dining hall. As he passed by, he spoke to me and acted as if he recognized me. To me that spoke volumes about the type of person he was. I followed him and the Vikes as much as I could after that but graduate school in Michigan and the Navy made it difficult. I am glad that he found peace after his devastating accident, and I wish his family well.
Kenneth Mitchell
October 29, 2008
Karl was a very down to earth person. I worked at the Left Guard Night Club while Karl was doing PR work for the Vikings. One of my special needs employees got to meet him and the courtesy that Karl showed him was heart warming. At the high point in his career, Karl proved he was not above anyone. A truly wonderful human being. I was glad I had the pleasure to know him, even if for a very short time. God be with his family in their time of mourning.
Joe Peplinski
October 29, 2008
Chris, John, & family,
So sorry to hear of your loss. We know he will be missed by all of you.
Our sympathy and prayers are with you.
connie
October 29, 2008
Rest in peace.
My deepest sympathy to the family.
God Bless
WARREN ELBERS
October 29, 2008
IF THE VIKING PLAYERS OF TODAY HAD KARL AND WALLY'S HEART AND SPIRIT FOR FOOTBALL WE WOULD BE SUPERBOWL BOUND EVERY YEAR.MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.GOD BLESS
steve collis
October 29, 2008
what a great player karl was he will be missed by all true vikings fans . my god bless you and your family.
Guy Puglia
October 29, 2008
Karl was a very classy person. I really enjoyed working with karl and hearing his old viking stories. I did an autograph signing with him and his son last June and karl was first class all the way. Sorry to see you go. God Bless.
Reese Hammill
October 29, 2008
This is one name I will never forget. I always pretended to be Karl Kassulke when I was growing up playing sand lot football. " The Purple People Eaters" RIP My condolences to the family.
Barbara West
October 29, 2008
The first time I ever danced the polka was with Karl, at one of the infamous Viking parties! He could make anyone laugh. What brings greater delight is to know that he IS a Believer in Jesus Christ. While we mourn his physical passing, we can rejoice in that fact.
Jeff Blomgren
October 29, 2008
To the family of Karl Kassulke,
My condolences to you, I have been a Viking fan all of my life and remember my dad telling me about Karl and what a hitter and great guy he was, he will allways be a True Viking and gentleman.
Lori Haugen
October 29, 2008
My heartfelt prayers to your family,
While I was attending Anoka-Ramsey Technical College, as a Physical Therapist Assistant student, Mr. Kassulke visited our classroom. Over fifteen years later, I still remember the positive outlook he had on life. He will forever remain a role model to me. May your love and memories help you through this difficult time
Mark Paxton
October 29, 2008
As a life long long Detroit Lions fan I remember watching Karl play in games at Tiger Stadium. He brings back a lot of memories. He was one of the reasons they called us the NFC "Black & Blue" Central back then.
Jaymon Rivard
October 29, 2008
Watched him play when I was a child and admired his hitting ability and toughness. Was deeply saddened with his motorcycle accident and missed his play. Now I am grieving his loss.
Jane (Janeczko) Berse
October 29, 2008
Karl was a classmate of mine at West Milwaukee High School, Class of 59. What a Wonderful Guy !!! Loved by ALL !!!
October 29, 2008
To Family:
1corinthians 1:3,4;John5:28
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