Carl Walter Dahlke

Carl Dahlke of Troy, Michigan, passed away at the age of 90 on December 31st, 2025. Born on June 30, 1935, Carl lived a whole and remarkable life marked by creativity, dedication, and deep love for his family.

Carl was the beloved husband of Mary Dahlke, with whom he shared more than 40 wonderful years of marriage. He was a devoted father to Eric (deceased 1974), Karl (Wendy), and Alice Porter, and a loving stepfather to Jamie Van Tiem (Joy), Kevin Van Tiem (deceased 2014), and Bret Van Tiem (Eric). He was a grandfather to eight grandchildren: Beth, Keke, Ricky, Dane, Rachel, Paige, Conner, and Macy.

Music was one of Carl's lifelong passions. He was an avid member of the Barbershop Harmony Society for over 60 years. He achieved international recognition as part of the gold medal–winning quartet, The Auto Towners, as the bass singer in 1966. Over the years, Carl generously shared his talents as a chorus director, coach, arranger, and composer, leaving a lasting impact on the barbershop community.

Carl also embraced an active life. As a member of the Motor City Striders running club, he completed three marathons and ran 113 Michigan races, all carefully documented in a personal file he humorously titled "No Wonder I'm Tired." He enjoyed sailing on Lake St. Clair and once single-handedly won a trophy when his sailing partner arrived late-a story that reflected both his independence and determination.

Professionally, Carl retired from the Chrysler Corporation, where he served as a Senior Designer, contributing his creativity and expertise over a distinguished career.

Carl Dahlke will be missed beyond words-remembered for his talent, humor, perseverance, and the love he shared so freely with family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

Services will be private at the request of the family.