Karl G. Birkhofer,97, passed away peacefully Friday, April 6, 2018. Born in Tafertsweiler, Germany on April 19, 1920 to Ignaz and Theresia Burth Birkhofer, Karl came to America at 19 to visit his brother who managed a large estate, Eagle Point in Gloucester, VA.

Unable to go home once the war started, Karl remained in America, joined the army, and eventually became an American citizen of which he was always happy to tell anyone who would listen.

After the war ended, Karl went back to Germany to visit his family. While at a dance he saw a girl he knew from his younger days. They danced and he walked her home and 3 weeks later they were married.

Karl was a longtime Hampton resident who proudly served in the US Army during World War II.  He then worked for Newport News Shipbuilding from which he retired after 32 years. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church where he was active with the Happy Wanderers, and also enjoyed serving donuts and coffee after Mass. Never forgetting his roots, he was also a member of the Tidewater German Club and enjoyed all the friendships he made there.

An avid card player, Karl especially enjoyed Pinochle and would play regularly with a group of friends.

Predeceased by his loving wife of 65 years, Lucie R. Birkhofer,2 brothers, Ignaz and Alfred and one sister, Luis. Karl is survived by his daughter, Ingrid and her husband Lex, and grandchildren, Alex and Natalie, 3 nephews  Hubert, Gerhard, Erwin and 1 niece Herta.

The family extends appreciation to the staffs of Marian Manor and Westminster Canterbury at Home for their excellent care and support.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated 11:00 AM Tuesday, April 17, 2018 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church by Rev. Msgr. Robert Perkins. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.