A Space for Karl
(Note: This is not an obituary. It is a fixed location for updates on Celebration of Life and to collect memories to share at the event. See the latest update below.)
Welcome to this private space for the family and friends of Karl Johann Leroy Catob.
As many of you know, our beloved Elder transitioned peacefully on Palm Sunday, March 29. His last visitor at Valencia was, poignantly, his first grandchild, Rocky. He left us under the waxing Pink Moon—a timing that felt deeply significant. Karl held a profound reverence for Native American traditions and those who live close to the land; for them, this moon signifies the start of spring and the return of life. Fittingly, it is also Holy Week, a reminder of the cycle of death and resurrection.
We are holding onto the small, sacred moments from his final week. His daughter, Annie, shared that during her visit on Friday, he expressed that he knew his time was near and asked her to thank everyone. His granddaughter Jacqui, who sat with him every week companioning his transition across the threshold, shared that even when he could no longer eat or drink, his final words were a whispered, "I love you."
While we miss him dearly, we find comfort in a lifetime of memories and the knowledge that he is now at rest. In the end, we are reminded that Love is truly all that matters.
We created this page to keep everyone updated on the arrangements for his Celebration of Life and to provide a place to share stories as we navigate these next few weeks. You can bookmark or return to this page to check for updates. Thank you for your continued love and support.
UPDATES
8/4/26
Memorial Service Update for Karl Johann Catob
Join us on September 11, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. at the Florida National Cemetery (FNC) in Bushnell, Florida, for a memorial service honoring Karl Johann Catob.
Following the brief service, a Celebration of Life will be held at American Legion Post 101, located just down the road from FNC (Click here for Google Address). Food and drinks will be served. If you haven’t already, please RSVP to Mary at (929) 263-5337.
What to Expect
The memorial service at Bushnell will include military honors. Because this is a tightly timed, brief service, we kindly ask that everyone do their best to arrive on time, as we are unable to delay the start.
The Celebration of Life afterwards will be a time to share a few words or offer reflections on Karl. Most importantly, it will be a place to connect in the way Karl loved best: over a grilled hot dog with a cold drink in hand.
Why This Date?
September 11th is a heavy date for Americans, and it was for Karl, too. But it was also the date that brought him to New York City as a Red Cross volunteer in the aftermath of 9/11. Karl was deeply proud of his service, and we felt that honoring his life on this day would be entirely fitting.
Karl Quotes
“Don’t wait for life to happen. Make it happen yourself. Don’t be a victim.”
“You have direction, it's just that it is a convoluted path, and that is what gives life its richness and joy, as well as disappointment and sorrow. You'll navigate it OK.”
“What a feast!”
“When you encounter self-doubt in your abilities I want you to consider your accomplishments and your goals… All these things speak to your courage, perseverance, and your talents. All of us; your friends and family, myself are very proud of you and share your successes as well as your setbacks and we love you very much.”
“I tried to do the best I could. I tried to raise my children with peace, love and a belief in Christ.”
Do you have a favourite quote & want to share it? Send it to me.