Karl Melvin Kolm, age 89, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, in Waco, Texas. Karl lived a life defined by faith, optimism, determination, and an unwavering belief in the goodness of people. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, veteran, entrepreneur, and friend whose encouragement and kindness touched countless lives.

Born on April 7, 1937, in Racine, Wisconsin, Karl graduated from South Division High School in Milwaukee in 1955, proudly served in the United States Army, and later earned his Associate degree. Following his military service, he worked for General Dynamics where he helped build the gyroscope for Apollo 8. While working at General Dynamics Karl met the love of his life, Patricia Sharon Kolm. Together they shared more than six decades of marriage, raising four daughters and building a family rooted in faith, love, and togetherness. In 1972, Karl accepted a transfer with SMI as a Sales and Marketing Director and moved his young family from Wisconsin to Texas. What others may have viewed as a leap into the unknown, Karl embraced as an opportunity. Together, he and Pat built a life filled with lifelong friendships, community involvement, and a strong family foundation that remains their enduring legacy.

Karl was a successful small business owner in Waco and a natural motivator who believed deeply in setting goals, working hard, and never giving up. His daughters fondly remember listening to motivational tapes during countless car rides while he shared lessons on perseverance, positive thinking, and believing in yourself. Karl never met a stranger. His warm smile, outgoing personality, and genuine interest in others made him a friend to many. He lived by a simple but powerful philosophy: "Two things in life that are absolutely free are love and kindness."

Outside of work, Karl was an active member of Knights of Columbus Chapter 13005. He also enjoyed gardening, photography, collecting stamps and coins, and taking on projects around the house. He loved coaching his daughters' sports teams and cheering them on in every endeavor. A lifelong Green Bay Packers fan and devoted supporter of Baylor athletics, Karl rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his beloved teams and create lasting memories with family and friends.

Above all else, Karl's greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his daughters, Karen Cowan and husband Quinton, Karol Mayer, Kimberly George and husband Glenn, and Katie Kolm; grandchildren Carter Cowan, Kelli Love, Mackenzie Cowan, Cole Mayer and wife Megan, Olivia Mayer, Bonus grandchildren - Adrienne George and Andrew George; and great-granddaughter Callie Mayer. Karl was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia Sharon Kolm. Though separated by only a short time, family and friends find comfort in knowing they are together once again. Karl's legacy of optimism, kindness, perseverance, and love lives on in the family he cherished and the many lives he touched.

The family is forever grateful for the compassion and care shown to Karl by the team at Providence Hospice and the nursing staff on 4 South.

Flowers are welcome, or memorial donations may be made to Providence Hospice or the charity of your choice.

A Mass honoring Karl's life will be held on June 11, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Jerome Catholic Church, 9820 Chapel Road, Waco, Texas 76712.