Karl Raymond Havlicek

Karl (Hondo) (Click) Raymond Havlicek, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2024, in Goodyear, Arizona. Born on December 1, 1936, in Sedro-Woolley, Washington, Karl lived a vibrant life marked by dedication, service, and adventure.
Karl's early years in Washington set the stage for a life of Service, exploration and achievement. While serving in the Army, He pursued his bachelor's degree in Aeronautical Engineering at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida. This education helped develop a distinguished career that spanned both in military service and his contributions to the aviation industry and beyond.
His commitment to his country was evident through his service in the United States Air Force as a Radar Technician for four years, followed by a notable 22-year tenure in the Army as a Pilot. Karl's bravery and excellence were recognized with a Bronze Star and 16 Air Medals for his service during the Vietnam War. His military career was one of courage and passion, and he retired with full honors.
Following his military service, Karl continued to soar to new heights. He worked for Boeing as an Account Manager for Customer Requirements & Delivery, sharing his expertise and contributing to the future of aviation. His love for flying remained undiminished as he took on roles as a Life Flight Pilot for Wings Aloft and as a Flight Instructor for Lufthansa Airlines. Karl would often charter a plane to take friends, colleagues, & his wife on Golfing Outings. He loved being a Pilot and soaring through the skies.
Karl's zest for life wasn't confined to the skies. He also served as a Golf Shop Staff Assistant at Falcon Dunes Golf Course, where his love for golf provided many hours of joy and camaraderie. He also won 2 back-to-back Championships in the International Pilots Golf Club-2007 & 2008. Additionally, Karl played a pivotal role as the HAZMAT Coordinator for the Amazon PHX 5 Site, where his colleagues knew him as a spirited and a dedicated professional.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Karl was a devoted family man and a friend to many. Although preceded in death by his beloved wife Marilyn, his parents Karl L. and Birdie V, his son James, his sister Diana Morales, his brother David, and his niece Robin Hauptman, Karl's legacy continues through his daughter Anita Havlicek of Goodyear, Arizona; his nephew Randy Rogers of Auburn, Washington; nieces Dana Patterson and Dawn Stout of Billings, Montana; great-nieces Janalee Hauptman of Peoria, Arizona, Lindsay Sutherland of Moyie Springs, Idaho, and Kelly Marinas of Sahuarita, Arizona; his brother-in-law Raymond Morales of Moyie Springs, ID; his six grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; great-great nieces and nephews; and a host of close friends and former co-workers.
An avid fan of the University of Washington Huskies football team, Karl's enthusiasm for the team was infectious and unmatched. His love for the team led him to travel with the team extensively. Karl was responsible for the addition of The Boeing Company matching employee's Monetary Donations Fund to the Huskies Athletic Program. Karl and Lyn were Season Ticket Holders and a part of the Tyee Member's Club. Karl's life was a testament to the words of Helen Keller: "Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all." He embodied this spirit, living each day with a courageous and passionate heart.
Karl Raymond Havlicek's life story is one of boundless spirit and unwavering passion. He inspired those around him to pursue their dreams with courage and to face life's challenges with a resilient spirit. Always there to lend a helping hand. As we remember Karl, we celebrate a life exceptionally well-lived, marked by adventure, service, and love. His memory will continue to soar in the hearts of all who knew him, guiding us on our own journeys with the same adventurous spirit he carried through his own life.
In remembrance of Karl, we ask that you wear the color, Purple.