Karl Catob

Karl Johann Catob, 93, passed away peacefully on March 29, 2026, in Lakeland, Florida. Born on February 24, 1933, in South Bend, Indiana, Karl lived a life filled with adventure, service, and devotion to his family and faith.

Karl began his distinguished military career in the United States Air Force before transitioning to the U.S. Army Reserves. While pursuing a civilian career, he attended flight school at Fort Rucker, Alabama, where he became a licensed pilot. In 1981, Karl returned to active duty with the U.S. Army as a member of the 1st Cavalry Division, piloting Huey and Cobra helicopters. His military service took him across the globe, yet when asked about his favorite place, Karl fondly recalled "our family goat farm in New Jersey." He retired from the Army in 1991 at Hunter Army Airfield in Savannah, Georgia, concluding a remarkable career of service to his country.

In addition to his military accomplishments, Karl pursued a diverse professional life. He worked at Tower Hill School in Wilmington, Delaware; the University of Tampa; and as a pilot for Polk County, Florida. His dedication to his work was matched by his commitment to helping others. As a volunteer with the Red Cross, Karl assisted in recovery efforts following the 9/11 attacks in New York City and Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans.

Karl was deeply rooted in his faith and expressed gratitude for the blessings he received throughout his life. A member of the Masonic Lodge and a Shriner with the Egypt Temple in Tampa, FL, Karl was active in giving back to his community.

Family was central to Karl's life. He is survived by his children: Karen Catob; Sandra Warner (Rick); Linda Miller (Duane); Steven Catob; and Annie Conigliaro. Grandchildren Rachel, Ian, Kendall, Keir, Rocky, Karl, Gene, Maria, Christina, Rosie, Steven, Annie, Sara, Jacqui, Mary, Nathan, Nehemiah, Tim, Damon, Ashley, Adriane, Rani, Charles, Jessica, Jeremy, Bethany, Grace, Stephanie and Geoffrey, 33 Great-grandchildren and 1 Great-great-granddaughter. He is also survived by his brother, Erik (Karen) Catob. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Jacqueline Mexson Catob; daughters Helene Catanese and Deborah Williams; grandsons Andrew Catob, Joshua Williams, Daniel Williams; and son-in-law Frank Conigliaro, sister Sheryl Loux and brother Kurt (Carol) Catob.

Karl's grandson and namesake eloquently captured his essence: "Father of seven. A man's man, mechanic, multilingual veteran of the U.S. Air Force & Army; pilot; adventurer; world traveler; avid gardener; best burnt hot dog griller; motorcycle enthusiast; bird lover; nature, history & literature savant; crossword & cryptic byword completer; master of storytelling; back-breaking hugger; and a man I shared a name and birthday with. One of my first heroes and the first hero I had to learn had flaws. Admiring him was easy; loving him was natural. Hemingway wrote stories about men like this. John Wayne made a fortune pretending to be them. I just thought he was really incredibly cool."

Karl's legacy is one of strength, humility, and unwavering love for those around him. His memory will forever inspire those who knew him. Internment will take place at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell, FL.

"Well done, good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:21). Godspeed!