Karl Froehlich

Karl Jay Froehlich, 74, beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 17, 2025, in Fort Worth, Texas.

A celebration of Karl’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, August 22, 2025, at Wiley Funeral Center, 420 Highway 377 East in Granbury, Texas. A committal service with military honors will follow at 3:00 PM that afternoon at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.

Karl was born on May 26, 1951, in Neptune, New Jersey. Karl was the son of the late Charles and Mary Froehlich. He proudly served in the United States Air Force for a span of over 30 years, as a Pararescue specialist (PJ) in The Vietnam War. He was the recipient of The Distinguished Flying Cross for valor during the Mayaguez rescue operation, where he displayed extraordinary valor under fire – one of the nation’s highest military honors. Driven by curiosity and a desire to grow, Karl earned his Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering in his 50s. He also contributed professionally as a firefighter, Paramedic, Environmental Safety Officer in the oil field, roles that reflected his bravery and technical skill. He was a proud Mason and an active member of both the Pararescue Association and the Fly Fishing Association. In the last 15 years, Karl found tremendous fulfillment as a baseball umpire. His love for the game took him to Cooperstown, New York, where he officiated championship games and made lifelong friendships. His warmth, energy, and gift for connecting with others made a lasting impression on everyone he met—he truly never met a stranger. Karl’s greatest pride and joy was his family.

Karl is deeply loved and will be forever missed by his children: Kasie and her husband Billy Simmons; Kristie Young; Monica and her husband Ben Duff; and Jimmy and his wife Shana Olson. He was a proud grandfather to Trey, Slade, Jeremiah, Wyatt, Lucas, Dylynn, Jacob, and Emma. He is also survived by his siblings: Kenneth Froehlich, Kurt Froehlich, Karen Heumiller, and Kevin Froehlich; and by his loyal dog and constant companion, Rocket.

Karl is now reunited in peace with his beloved wife, Connie, and his parents, Charles and Mary Froehlich.

His legacy of service, love, and adventure lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the family choice of Fisher House Foundation. https://fisherhouse.org