David Robert Karling, Jr.

With heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life built on hard work, loyalty, and enduring love, we announce the passing of David “Dave” Robert Karling Jr., our warrior who fought cancer so bravely until his final breath in the early morning hours of February 20, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Dave was born on June 3, 1958, in Brooklyn, NY. From an early age, he embodied resilience, determination, and quiet strength — qualities that defined both his career and his devotion to family.

He began his professional life in oil exploration, working long hours in demanding conditions that required grit and perseverance. He later transitioned into construction, where he built beautiful craftsman-style homes with precision and pride. His craftsmanship reflected his belief that things should be built the right way — with integrity and care. He completed his long and hardworking career at Petersen Inc., serving as an Inspection Supervisor, where he earned the respect of colleagues for his knowledge, leadership, and unwavering standards. But the greatest role of his life was that of husband and father.

On November 24, 1981, Dave married his beautiful, cherished once-in-a-lifetime love, Martha (Atkinson). Together they shared 44 years filled with beauty, hardship, laughter, growth, and a deep, enduring love that carried them through every chapter of life. Their marriage was rooted in commitment and resilience, strengthened by the seasons they walked through side by side.

After his diagnosis in October 2024, Dave and Martha renewed their marriage vows in November 2024 — a tender reaffirmation of a love that had only deepened with time. Martha cared for the love of her life with tireless dedication and compassion, remaining faithfully by his side until his final breath.

Dave is survived by his loving wife; youngest daughter, Nichole and her husband Anthony, and his eldest daughter, Kim and her husband Brian. He was also a loving father to his son, David Arthur Karling His cherished grandchildren, Drew, Dillon, and Kaitlynn, brought him immense pride and joy. His strength, wisdom, and steady presence will live on through them.

He was preceded in death by his beloved son, David Arthur Karling; and his brother, Thomas Arthur Atkinson, both of whom he carried in his heart always.

Dave was a man rich in knowledge and passion — especially for fishing, hunting, and firearms. He took pride in sharing what he knew and in passing down the traditions he valued. Beneath his rugged strength was a gentle heart, evident in the quiet companionship he shared with his beloved black Bombay kitty Purrsia, who rarely left his side during his illness.

He lived with grit.
He worked with integrity.
He loved with loyalty.
His hands built homes, but his heart built a family.
He will be missed beyond measure and loved beyond time.

We would like to offer our sincere gratitude to Dr. Benjamin LaRose and his caring and loving staff for ensuring Dave received the best care possible and continue to love and support Martha. Also, the Barlow Family for their compassion, love, and support.

A Celebration of Life  will be held on Monday, March 2, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Lindquist’s Ogden Mortuary, 3408 Washington Blvd. A gathering will be held on Monday from 12 to 2 p.m. at the Community Center at Lindquist’s Office Building, 3434 Washington Blvd. 

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