Karl Heinz Nimphius, 93, passed away on Thursday, September 10, 2015. He is reunited with the love of his life, his wife, Esther. Loving father to Kris (John) Richardson-Smith, Karla (Clarence) Harris, and Kurt (Krista). Cherished “Opa” to Casey (Jacob Wood) Harris, Claren Harris, Jason (Lindsey) Richardson, Andrea (Brian) Heneghan, Paul (Sandy) Smith, and Megan (Graham) Cheetham, 7 great-grandchildren, family members, and friends. Brother-in-law to Betty Nimphius. Preceded in death by his grandson, Nathan; brothers, Ferdinand, Werner, Franz, Rudolf; and sisters, Toni and Eleanor.

Karl was a lifelong resident of South Milwaukee and a very committed volunteer, having served as the President of the South Milwaukee Lions, Jaycees, Yacht Club, Retired Teachers Association, and Toppers Club. He was the Founder of the national Old GOATS (Gentleman Of Assorted Talents and Skills) Association. Karl was also a Life Member of the VFW and proud guest on the WWII Honor Flight.

As a teenager, Karl joined his brothers in the Nimphius Boat Company building wooden sail boats. After 4 years in the Air Force he returned to the boat business and married Esther Dinkel in 1950. They went on to become avid ballroom dancers and world travelers.

Karl turned his love of wood working to a career in building homes. Karl and Esther raised their family in a home Karl designed and built. He later earned his teaching degree and joined SMHS as a Building Trades teacher. Many of his students recall his love of teaching and carpentry, and how he was always happy to help.

Visitation will be at First Congregational United Church of Christ in South Milwaukee from 1:00PM-3:00PM on Friday, September 25, 2015. The funeral service will follow at 3:00PM. There will be an open house at Salvatore’s, 1919 12th Avenue, South Milwaukee, from 4:30-8pm to celebrate Karl’s life. Donations in Karl’s name can be made to the Wisconsin Lions camp sailboat fund, 3834 CR -A, Rosholt, WI 54473.