Birgit Karch

Birgit Karch, 95, of Nazareth, quietly passed away on February 10, 2026, at Lehigh Valley Hospital Hospice Unit, Allentown. Born on January 12, 1931, in the picturesque city of Aarhus, Denmark, Birgit was the only daughter of the late Sven and Paula Nielsen Knochel.
Birgit's journey led her from the shores of Denmark to the heart of her husband, Edward Karch. Their whirlwind romance blossomed into a partnership lasting for 61 years until Edward's passing in March of 2012. Together, they built a warm and welcoming home in Nazareth, where they raised their three children: Kaj Karch (Mary) of Easton, Gary Karch (Cynthia) of Macungie, and Julie Becker of Upper Mt. Bethel. Birgit's legacy continued to flourish through her grandchildren, Andrew (Jessica) of Santa Clara, CA, Peter (Allison) of LaGrange, IL, Alexandra Merrick (Stephen) of Chihuahua, Mexico, Olivia Karch of Jacksonville Beach, FL, and Benjamin Davison. She was blessed with 6 great-grandchildren, Soren and Boden of LaGrange, and Gideon, Jethro, Enoch and Talitha of Chihuahua. In addition to her husband and parents, she was predeceased by 2 brothers, Paul and Mogens.
Birgit's spirited nature was evident in her active engagement with the world around her. As a homemaker, she was the heart of her family. As a member of the community, she was committed to staying active and socially involved. She was a member of a local bridge club for over 50 years, the Woman's Club of Nazareth, and served on the Borough Recreation Committee. She was a member of St. John's United Church of Christ in Nazareth.
An embodiment of strength and determination, Birgit's European roots instilled in her a love for sports. She was an avid skier, gliding across cross-country trails and conquering the slopes with her downhill prowess. But it was tennis that was not just a hobby for Birgit, it was a passion. She was often engaged in friendly competition on the courts, sometimes alongside her dear friend Millie Polomchak. Her athletic achievements were highlighted when she and the Bethlehem Racqueteers clinched the USTA Senior Team Tennis Invitational title in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in November 1990 - a testament to her competitive spirit and teamwork.
Birgit's life was a tapestry of experiences that painted a portrait of a woman who was not only spirited and intelligent but also deeply adventurous. Her story is one of love, family, and community.
A Memorial Service to celebrate the life of Birgit Karch will be announced and held at a later date. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Schmidt Funeral Home, PC, 407 Belvidere St., Nazareth.
Please visit a Tribute page dedicated to Birgit at www.schmidtfuneralhomepc.com