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KARL SCHNIBBE Obituary

Karl Heinz Schnibbe 1924 ~ 2010 Karl Heinz Schnibbe, 86, the last survivor of the Huebner anti-Nazi resistance group, passed away May 9, 2010 from complications of Parkinson's disease.Born Jan. 5, 1924 in Hamburg, Germany to Johann and Paula Luetkemuller Schnibbe. Karl came to Salt Lake City in 1952. He worked as a painter, paper hanger and decorator. Known as a fine craftsman, he did the gold leafing in many buildings including the Assembly Hall, Symphony Hall, the Hotel Utah and the Jordan River Temple Angel Moroni. As a teenager in 1941 he and two friends distributed anti-Nazi leaflets in Hamburg. They were eventually caught by the Nazis which resulted in Helmuth Huebener, 17, being executed and Karl and Rudy Wobbe serving time in concentration camps. Karl was a member of the LDS Church and served in the Salt lake Temple for 18 years. He married Joan Robinson October 8, 1976 in the Salt Lake Temple and she survives him. Also surviving are daughter Tracy (Ken) Nielsen of Washington, UT, son Eric of Salt Lake, one grandson, nieces, nephews and sister Carla (Ken) Sansom. Funeral services will be 12:00 noon, Friday, May 14, 2010 at the Valley View 3rd Ward, 4101 South 1925 East. A viewing at the same ward will be Thursday night from 6 to 8 p.m. and Friday prior to services from 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. Interment at the Murray City Cemetery. Services in the care of Premier Funeral Services.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Deseret News on May 12, 2010.

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Tracy Schnibbe

June 16, 2024

Daddy today is difficult for me as I wish I could be giving you a hug from you little girl who is not so little any longer.

You would be so proud of where I am in my life right now. I have finally found my way back to church. I am in the Saint George 3rd Ward. I just finished Sacrament and heading to Sunday School now.
Church is now only 2 hours and seems to short to fit everything in.

Happy Father's Day Daddy
I love you and I will see you again when my time comes to join you.
Love your little girl Tracy

Nicole B.

September 22, 2023

I think of Karl - Heinz a lot lately. He was one of a kind and when I look at his photo, my memory of him is so vivid as if he is right here still with us, enriching our day. He was so full of life, witty, sharp, fearless, charming. To this day I feel incredibly honoured to have been able to meet him. I was a German Temple Square sister missionary in 2004/2005, and ran into him occasionally. I could have listened to his stories for hours. What I loved most was him always sharing his opinion without caring what others think. Here was this man, who went through hell in such an early stage of his life, standing up for what is right. A quality so rare to find when facing such sinister powers like he did. I can´t even begin to imagine how this horrible time must have impacted one´s health. The more I was impressed by his vitality and youthful spirit, even at the age of 80 he was back then. I am amazed by the courage and integrity of the Hübener group, defying the Nazi regime. I say thank you for this outstanding example you are, Karl - Heinz! Thank you that I was worthy of your time too. It was always such a pity when our conversations were interrupted because I had to run to the next assignment as an LDS missionary.
The last time I talked to Karl - Heinz was when he visited Berlin in 2006 and I got a signed copy of his book. Lots of banter and laughing, fun moments! I re-read the book last month, it is a great help and reminder to me now. I treasure it so much and the memory connected with it. Whenever I fear a situation, I think of what Karl went through and it gives me instant courage. May you rest in peace. You will never be forgotten, my friend. I will think of you on January 5th 2024, and will say: Alles Gute zum 100. Geburtstag!:)

Best wishes to his family. Thank you for this opportunity to sign the virtual guest book and share my memories even after all these years.

Laron Selfridge

November 29, 2020

Mike Gardner of Cottonwood Heights remembers him putting gold leaf in many of the old Stake buildings in Salt Lake City. Mike Gardner mentioned that he was a dedicated craftsman.

Marvia Hall

January 7, 2014

Never too late to sign a guest book, I hope. I moved into Brother Schnibbe's ward in 2000. In my history class, we had to do a presentation about a historical figure. I asked Brother Schnibbe if I could interview him for the assignment. He was so kind with me and was happy to share with me his stories and experiences during Nazi Germany. From that experience, I always felt a sweet bond towards him and later in 2006, I was overjoyed to introduce my fiancé to him in the Salt Lake Temple. He shook my fiancé's hand and shared sweet compliments about me that meant a great deal. I'm grateful to know such a good man. He taught me so much about sacrifice, love, forgiveness, grace and the atonement of Jesus Christ.

Annie

November 30, 2010

I am doing a report about your father for my language assignment when i heard your fathers name it stuck out to me. I don't know why but from what I've researched on your father i think he is one of the greatest heroes of his time and i was very proud to have him as the person i was researching and i am very sorry about your loss.

Karl H. Schnibbe aprox 1965

Tracy Schnibbe Nielsen

June 9, 2010

I would like to thank everyone for writing such beautiful comments about my Father. He was a very special man whom always had an open mind and a big heart. He was never one to judge another human being on what they had done. Not once do I ever remember him getting angry or even raising his voice at myself as a child for something stupid I had done. He would just tell me what his opinion was and how he would have gone about doing such a thing. His spirit is now amoung us all and we can use him as an example for ourselves to live by. Once again thank you all. I would liketo share a few photos of him as well. Goodbye Daddy till we meet again. I love you.
Much love, Tracy Schnibbe Nielsen

Ludwig Berndt

May 27, 2010

Joan, My greatest condolence at the loss of Karl-Heinz. I only met you once at the occasion of my Brother Otto's funeral. I know you were a great blessing and comfort to Karl. He truly endured many things and he had many challenges in his life. Through it he carried on well. My remembrances of Karl go back to Hamburg during some of the difficult times. He will meet many friends on the other side. His pain and suffering has ceased. Ludwig Berndt.

May 22, 2010

I just saw him on the BYU-TV days before I received my Mormon Times. As soon as my husband came home from work, I was telling him all about the show. It brought tears to my eyes. May your family be at peace.

Sue Baker Smith

May 20, 2010

Dear Joan,

I didn't get much time to talk with you at the funeral so I wanted to write to you. It's been such a pleasure to know you first with Barbara's family and then with Karl. He was a wonderful man and such an inspiration! I was so sorry when I called you a few years back to have him speak to our Empty Nesters group and you told me he wasn't up to doing that anymore. I always enjoyed seeing him in the Temple occasionally and he was so nice and fun to talk to! He will be missed. Thank you for your unending care for him--you were truly any angel for him and I know brought him great joy. Thank you for letting me serve in the Youth Center! Steve and I are leaving for Cody, WY to serve as missionaries at the Cody Mural Visitors Center for 3+ months. Will try to get reassigned to the Temple when we get home. Take care. Know you're loved and appreciated!!
Love, Sue and Steve Smith

May 16, 2010

We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Bro. Schnibbe. He will be missed by many who enter into the Salt Lake Temple. He was a very special person. Sister Schnibbe, we know what a "jewel" you were to him. Thank you for your example. The Hamiltons (Chad & Judy)

May 16, 2010

I had the privilege of serving with Karl in the Salt Lake Temple. I have also read the book depicting his challenges as a teen-ager in Germany during the war. Karl is and was a remarkable man. The world is a better place because Karl was in it. May the Lord bless and comfort his family with the knowledge that life is eternal as you mourn his loss.

Charles Rose
(Now serving a mission in the temple in Sweden.)

Kathryn Moss

May 15, 2010

I never knew Karl, but knowing of him has changed my life.

Charles Jones

May 14, 2010

I met Karl through my father in law and brother in law, both Otto Berndt. His sense of humor and love of life was remarkable considering all the trials and atrocities he had experienced. I loved to listen to his experiences and was very impressed with his integretity and his commitment to his ideals. When Regine and I had to leave SLC, due to employement, Karl rented the home that we owned, and that gave us an opportunity to still have contact with him. I will miss him.

Brooke Mathews

May 14, 2010

Joan. I had the pleasure of knowing your husband for a short time as worked at Utah Bone and Joint. I can honestly say he was one of my favorite patients. He made such an impact on me. I have a very tender spot in my hear for him and for you. The love that you have for that man and the support you gave him was inspirational. My heart breaks for you and for the world. What an influence. I will continue to pray for you.

May 14, 2010

Dear Sister Schnibbe and Family,

What a blessing it was to have your husband and father in our home in Hamburg while we presided over the mission there. He was witty, committed, devoted to what was right and always willing to serve. As the Honorary Consul for the Federal Republic of Germany, it has been my pleasure and blessing to associate with him as friend ove the years that followed. He has strengthen the character and testimony of more people ove the years than we will ever know -- mostly in happy, quiet ways. Tom Brokaw was once quoted as saying, "In this country, it's easy to make a living -- but it's tough to make a difference. Karl Heinz made a difference wherever he went and to whom he spoke. May the Lord bless you all with peace and reassurance at this time of mourning for the brief separation that always tugs at our heart strings. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Mit lieben Gruessen,

Charles and Zella Dahlquist

May 14, 2010

Dear Joan,
I was saddened to learn of the passing of Karl. His legacy has meant much to me over the years even before I met you. I have enjoyed our friendship while working in the Youth Center. May the Lord's comfort and blessings be with you.
Love, Nancy Moench

GALEN SCHATZMAN

May 13, 2010

SCHNIBBE FAMILY,
WHAT A GREAT MAN. I ONLY KNOW HIM THROUGH ALL OF THE BOOKS I HAVE READ ABOUT HIS OPPOSITION TO NAZISM. WHAT A POWERFUL LEGACY OF TRUTH AND COURAGE. MY FATHER FOUGHT FROM A SEAT IN A B-24 LIBERATOR AND I HAVE A DEEP APPRECIATION FOR ALL WHO HAVE FOUGHT THIS FIGHT THAT WE WHO ARE LEFT CAN ENJOY THE FREEDOMS THAT THEY DESIRED AND PROTECTED. AS AN ADULT CONVERT, KARL'S LIFE HAD A GREAT IMPACT ON MY DESIRE FOR A TESTIMONY OF THE RESTORED GOSPEL AS HE ALWAYS COUNTED ON HIS FAITH TO GET HIM THROUGH. MANY LIVES HAVE BEEN TOUCHED AND CHANGED BECAUSE OF STALWART LATTER DAY SAINTS THAT THOSE THREE YOUNG MEN WERE. I KNOW THAT HE IS WITH OUR HEAVENLY FATHER AND IS SURELY HAVING MANY WONDERFUL REUNIONS. PLEASE CONTINUE TO TELL HIS STORY, IT NEEDS TO BE HEARD BY ALL.
GOD BLESS YOU!
GALEN SCHATZMAN

May 13, 2010

Dear Joan,
Karl was such a neat man! We enjoyed so much getting to know him. He was always so kind to our boys. Our boys always said he is German like us! We will miss him! We are sorry for your loss, and pray you will be comforted.
Love, The Langheinrich's

Yvonne Conder

May 13, 2010

Our family was so privileged to know Karl. He was a man of integrity and honor. Joan, we have been sorrowing for you the past few days. Our prayers are with you.

Love your good girl, I love you and will miss you.

Tracy Schnibbe Nielsen

May 13, 2010

Daddy I will live like you always wanted me too. I will set an example for your Grandson that you'd be proud of.

Ashley M.

May 13, 2010

I do not know Karl or his family, but read his recent news story on KSl.com and was touched by such a remarkable life and legacy. This was the first time i heard his story of distributing pamphlets about the Nazi regime during WW2. What an powerful example of faith and courage, one i will never forget! Thank you for allowing his experiences to be shared. My thoughts and prayers are with you all! XoXOxXo

Tracy Schnibbe Nielsen

May 13, 2010

Daddy, I will miss you. I will be forever your little girl. You showed me so many things and taught so many more.
A Daddy's Kiss
for you Daddy
A Fathers touch, a Daddy's kiss
A grieving Daughter, you're greatly missed.
An empty house, an empty chair
A Fathers love, no longer there.
A broken heart, tear filled eye
Another soul to fill the sky.
So many memories in my mind
Some I laugh, Some I cry.
Times we shared, the laughs we had
Things I miss when I think of you Dad.
Realizing that's all I have to hold on too
Only memories of me and you.
Missing your laugh, I will never again hear
That is the reality that fills me with so much fear.
No more smile on your face
No more warmth of your embrace.
The last hug
The last kiss
The last goodbye leaves me with one last wish,
Knowing you'll foever be by my side,
In a time of need ,to my knees I will confide.
A Fathers touch, A Daddys kiss
I a grieving Daughter
You're greatly missed

T Barlow

May 13, 2010

I only had the opportunity to "meet" Mr. Schnibbe through reading the various accounts of his actions as a part of the Hubener group. I deeply admire that he had the convictions to stand for what was right. May the Lord bless the Schnibbe family in their mourning. As another here stated, I'm sure he was greeted by his two beloved friends as well as many others who benefited from his acts of heroism. God bless the memory of this great man.

Dave & Meredith Pond

May 13, 2010

Condolences to the Schnibbe family and the Valley View 3rd ward on the passing of a great man, friend, and HERO. We lived in that ward for about 3 years and loved Karl. Dave's sister, Amy, was Karl's nurse at Highland Care. What a great man! We will miss him.

Cousin Carla C.

May 13, 2010

Cousin Joan: You are a valiant woman -- and you had the honor of being married to a stalwart in the Lord's field. We will miss Karl and his good humor, fascinating stories, acute observations, perfect garden, and cheerful outlook. Through the trials in his life, he became a witness to the devastation that can result from extremism, intolerance, and the negation of love and light. Karl was remarkable as he spoke before hundreds of congregations with a spirit of love and forgiveness, a man who was whole again and full of strength and purpose. He infused the audience with love and hope and confidence of a better road to follow. That example will always live on and bless us.
Bless you, too, for your wonderful example of devotion and support!

Allie

May 12, 2010

What an amazing man who went through so much but passed his test with flying colors. I just finished reading the story of Helmuth Huebener, and was touched by the courage and wisdom of this amazing young lad. I am sure they have been re-united and have both shared a wonderful moment together. Karl was his dear friend...what great two men they will continue to be. Karl's mission will continue. His legacy will live on, and he will continue to be a missionary on the other side, just as he was here.

Lyn Killeen

May 12, 2010

My life was blessed in knowing you Brother Schnibbe. It's been many years now but I remember that smile and strong spirit.
God bless you and your family.
Lyn Leonard-Killeen
(Holladay, UT-Phila, PA)

Barbara Parry

May 12, 2010

Even though I've never met him, I have read the books about him and Helmut and Rudy. The youth of today can certainly learn lessons from these fine men. What courage it took to stand up for what is right! May your fond memories of your husband and father sustain you in the days ahead and may God be with you.

Patricia W. Griffiths

May 12, 2010

Dear Joan,

I was deeply saddened to learn of your beloved husband’s passing. He is an incredible man who played a courageous and vital role in one of the darkest periods in the history of the world. I was so grateful for Karl’s willingness to accept my husband’s invitation to speak at a fireside for the youth when Lee was in leadership of the Murray Utah Stake. He made an indelible impression on all of the young people, as well as all of the adults in attendance. The story of his experiences with Helmuth Huebener and Rudoloph Wobbe was fascinating to us, and we learned lessons of courage, sacrifice, endurance, faith, and forgiveness from him. Knowing the hardships he suffered and the path that led him to Utah makes us more appreciative of the freedoms we enjoy as American citizens. His book, The Price, is a treasured part of our family library, which I’ve enjoyed reading several times. Also, I never enter the Utah Symphony Hall without thinking of Karl’s gold-leafing ability. His talents and abilities are lasting legacies which have enriched all our lives.

How lucky he was to have a companion like you. You taught my children, Gerri, Cheryl, Abe and Debbie, at Hillcrest Jr. High and instilled in them a love of the English language and literature, for which I will forever be grateful. The skills they learned from you have helped them tremendously throughout their lives and in their careers, and they have such pleasant memories of the relationship they enjoyed with you.

My thoughts and prayers will be with you in the difficult days ahead as you cope with this loss. While I know from experience that the longing for the earthly companionship of your eternal sweetheart never goes away, I also know that cherished memories and hope for the future through our faith and knowledge we share of the Plan of Happiness bring comfort and peace. I pray that the love and concern of friends and family will help to ease the burden of your sorrow.

With love and deepest sympathy,

Pat Griffiths

Natalee Fehr

May 12, 2010

Karl was such a powerful example to me and to my family. I am so thankful for having the privilege to have known him.

Cheri Vreeken Hansen

May 12, 2010

I had the wonderful priviledge of spending 3 wonderful weeks in Austria and Prague with Karl and his sweet wife Joan as a BYU Study Abroad student. I will forever be touched by Karl's message of hope, optimism, strength, integrity, and faith. He suffered the most unspeakable acts and despite all the horror his spirit came out untainted by hate and bitterness. He is a valient example to me. Our life is what we make it. There are horrible things that happen, but Karl truly lived his life as an example of our Savior. Loving, kind, cheerful, faithful, full of hope, optimism, charity and gratitude. The world will be forever blessed by this dear man.

Suzanne Hospice nurse

May 12, 2010

I am so grateful I had the opportunity to meet this remarkable man in the final days of his life. I was touched not only by the stories of his extraordinary life but by his spirit even while very ill. He had a sparkle in his eye and a warmth I will never forget. I was also very touched by his loving wife, Joan- such a great example of patience, dedication and devotion! May the spirit pour out blessings of comfort, peace and happiness.

The Sumner Family

May 12, 2010

We are glad that we got to spend time with Karl these last several weeks. We will miss him greatly. We send our love and prayers for your comfort Joan.

Betsy Ball

May 12, 2010

I will miss this great man. He led a courageous life and now is enjoying the accolades of the many people whose lives he touched - and possibly saved. He is joyously reunited with his 2 equally courageous friends and his extended family. And to you, Joan, my dear cousin...please know that you made him very happy - you gave him peace.

With love,
Betsy (Cannon) Ball

Mary Snow

May 12, 2010

Karl worked with my father on the recommend desk at the temple, and I have deep respect for his exactness and abilility to do a good job and be a friend to my father. His example of standing for what is right will be a beacon for all. On behalf of my father and our family, our deepest condolences go out to you.

May 12, 2010

Karl was one of the most interesting people I ever met...multitalented and very courageous. So many people are greeting him in heaven now...his extended family, his two equally courageous friends and the many dear Jewish people for whom he laid his life on the line. He will be greatly missed. My love to you, Joan. You made him happy and complete.

Betsy Cannon Glenn Ball

Lynn Jones

May 12, 2010

Karl was a dear friend of mine. I enjoyed the time I spent with Karl. He is an amazing individual. Karl and I went into the Uinta Mountains late one summer and gathered wild mushrooms together. He told stories of how his mother would take him to gather mushrooms in Germany when he was young. He was always looking forward with a positive attitude. I honor and revere Karl for being such a wonderful person and example. Joan is a wonderful complement to Karl, she was always supportive on him and I know he loves her greatly.

Candy Tippetts

May 12, 2010

I meet Karl during the rehearsal process for "Huebener." Karl was such a humble, kind man. I am grateful for the opportunity I had to know him. I will always cherish our friendship.

Sarah

May 12, 2010

Karl was an example of what was good in the world at such dark time in its history! May your family be uplifted at this difficult time!

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