Karl-Heinz P. Harte, 79, of Van Buren, IN, passed away on Saturday, May 21, 2016 in Marion General Hospital.
Karl was born May 20, 1937, in Oranienburg, E. Germany to the late Fritz and Dora Harte. He immigrated to the United States in 1957, obtained citizenship, and served his new country in the National Guard.
As a teen in So. Germany, Karl learned a trade in cabinet and furniture making. He brought those skills to his new home and successfully built his own business in Marion, IN, the Professional Cabinet Company. Those who knew Karl, knew him to have excellent woodworking skills. An outdoor enthusiast and avid cycler, he rode his bicycle from coast to coast on multiple occasions, the most recent in 2015. Karl was an active member of the Van Buren Lions Club and a regular volunteer at the Switchup Youth Center. He attended the Nazarene Church in Van Buren.
Survivors include: his wife of forty-six years, Willadean; brothers Peter Harte, Gerhard Harte, Ulrich Harte, and Dieter Piel;sister Christine Nitz; sons Karl A. Harte, Klaus Harte, Kurt Harte, and Kenneth Harte; daughter Heidi Galvan; stepson Mike Hall; stepdaughter Kim Swagger, thirteen grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents; Karl was preceded in death by his stepdaughter Nancy Price.
In keeping with Karl’s wishes, his body will be cremated and a memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Switchup Youth Center PO Box 376 Van Buren, IN 46991. Arrangements are being handled by Ferguson & Glancy Funeral Home Van Buren, IN.