Stephen Arthur Karl

Stephen Arthur Karl, a beloved father, and friend passed away unexpectedly on December 3, 2021, at the age of 59.

Stephen is survived by his children, Lauren (Justus) DiPeppe, of Norfolk, VA, and Owen Karl, of Washington, DC, his brother John (Lisa) Karl of Rochester, NY, and his sister Maureen (John) Heald, of Virginia Beach, VA. He is predeceased by his parents, John A. Karl, Sr., and Jean Bolin Karl. Stephen is also fondly remembered and deeply missed by his many dear friends and his loving partner Laurrie Coffin.

Stephen was born in San Francisco, CA on June 26, 1962. He graduated from Pittsford Sutherland High School in 1980, along with lifelong best friend 'Uncle' Todd Nichols and other dear friends. He went on to attend Niagara University (graduated in 1984) and received a master's degree in clinical social work and public policy from the University of Albany in 1987. He took great pride in his work as an LCSW at Ithaca College; he loved being a part of the IC community and treasured his work with the students and his relationships with his dear colleagues.

Stephen was an avid outdoorsman and loved spending time exploring the natural world. He was never happier than hiking around his treasured Pine Hill Retreat with friends or hosting loved ones for a meal. He loved to travel, especially to Colorado to visit his cousin Matt Rooney and explore Rocky Mountain National Park. A life-long swimmer, Stephen never missed an opportunity to be near the water. He loved to sail, relax on a beach, or hike up a waterfall.

A celebration of Stephen's life is scheduled for 1 PM at Ithaca Yacht Club (1090 Glenwood Road, Ithaca, NY) on Friday, December 10, 2021. Please join Stephen's family and friends – Dad would want us to share a meal and laugh as we share stories and memories of our time with him.