Karl Kent Sheaffer

Karl Kent Sheaffer, 81, of Duncannon, PA, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, at the Bob Fryer & Family Hospice Center in Mount Joy. Born in Harrisburg, PA, to Maurice and Eva (Wright) Sheaffer, he grew up in Lewistown, PA, and graduated from Lewistown High School in 1962. After earning a B.S. degree from Bloomsburg University and an M.S. degree from Bucknell University, he worked for 30 years as a stream biologist and as a manager within the PA Departments of Health, Environmental Resources, and Environmental Protection.

Karl had a lifelong love for the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. Never without a dog, he was proud to serve on the Dog Law Advisory Board, where he was a strong advocate against puppy mills. From his first German Shorthaired Pointer, Smokey, to his latest pup, Evie, he cherished every opportunity to take his dogs out to hunt.

Throughout his three-year battle with cancer, Karl showed remarkable strength, resilience, and a touch of characteristic stubbornness, continuing to enjoy the things that were most important to him to the end. He was happiest when spending time with family and friends, particularly while cooking and entertaining. Whether it was hosting holiday open houses, enjoying Monday nights eating wings, sharing birthday dinners, or telling stories around a campfire, Karl enjoyed them all. Time spent at his cabin in Mifflin County included many poker nights and hunting trips shared with good buddies. He also had a passion for traveling and exploring the world.

Karl is survived by his wife of 38 years, Lynn Langer; daughters Dawn Sheaffer and Heather Sheaffer (husband Bill Clark) of Philadelphia; grandson Ian Skahill of Philadelphia; brother David Sheaffer of Lewistown; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Ronald, Wayne, and Larry.

A celebration of Karl's life will be held at a future time. Memorial donations may be made to Street Tails Animal Rescue, 1030 N. 2nd St., Suite 401, Philadelphia, PA 19123 or Streettails.org.