Karl Schon

Karl (Kal) Schon

November 11, 2025

Karl ("Kal") Schon passed away unexpectedly at age 80 on Tuesday, November 11, with his family by his side. He is preceded in death by his father, Erik; his mother, Della; and his sister, Karen Swan. He is survived by his beloved wife, Lyn; his sons, Trent (Stephanie) and Troy (Kelly Fritz); his cherished grandchildren, Annika, Sanna, and Odin; and his niece and nephew, Joelle Swan and Jeff Swan.

Kal grew up in St. Paul, Minnesota, and graduated from Harding High School. He met the love of his life at the University of Wisconsin–Stout, and after marrying, he and Lyn began their teaching careers in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Kal later transitioned into the construction industry, where he led sales and marketing organizations with energy, integrity, and an extraordinary gift for bringing people together. After retiring, Kal and Lyn made their winter home in Marco Island, Florida-a community they grew to love-while continuing to keep a home in Eau Claire.

Affectionately known as Captain Kal, he earned his nickname not only because he spent summers cruising the Green Bay in Door County, Wisconsin, on his Carver boat, but because he was a captain in every sense-of adventure, of joy, and of inspiration. He encouraged others to see their dreams clearly and pursue them wholeheartedly, just as he did years ago when he walked the marina docks in Door County and imagined returning someday with his own boat and his own family. And he did.

Kal embraced life with enthusiasm. He continued downhill and water skiing well into his 70s and was always seeking the next adventure. He loved gathering with his college friends from UW–Stout, savoring sunsets with friends on Marco Island, and reconnecting with those in Eau Claire. He had an unmatched ability to make everyone around him feel welcomed, included, and uplifted.

He was especially proud of his grandchildren, and he and Lyn were their biggest fans-cheering from the sidelines of dance competitions, hockey rinks, and lacrosse fields. Kal was an avid traveler, exploring Europe with Troy, donning a kimono in Japan, tracing his Scandinavian heritage on a cruise, and visiting his granddaughter Annika while she studied in Copenhagen. He chased sunsets from beaches around the world, starting in Cozumel when his sons were young.

Kal taught all who knew him how to love deeply and give generously. His hugs were unforgettable, his smile was wide, and his bright blue eyes sparkled with pride for the people he loved.

Grandpa-Captain Kal-in your words, "We'll see you when we see you."