Karl Gustave Delfs

Karl Gustave Delfs, 64, of Kingston Springs, TN, passed away on February 13, 2026.

Born in St. Petersburg, Florida, Karl was a championship swimmer at Vero Beach High School before answering the call to serve his country. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1981 to 1989, a period of his life that shaped his character and dedication.

Karl was a man who found joy in the simple, steady rhythms of life. He was an avid outdoorsman who could often be found golfing on the weekends or meticulously tending to his yard. He took great pride in constantly improving his landscaping skills and creating a beautiful environment for the family he so deeply loved.

He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 40 years, Michelle E. (Boles) Delfs; his children, K. Nikolas Delfs (Katherine), Brittany A. Hurst (Wesley), and Jessica R. Delfs; and his siblings, Linda Mangeot, Lorie Jaskelainan, and Erich Delfs. His legacy lives on through his six grandchildren: Benjamin A. Lisle, Madeline R. Riggins, Collin N. Delfs, Emily T. Riggins, Aidan G. Delfs, and Lila E. Hurst.

Karl is preceded in death by his parents, Marilyn A. Delfs and Gunther Delfs, and his nephew, Erich Mangeot.