Obituary of Alva A Karl, Jr.

Alva A. Karl, Jr., 77, of Wildwood Crest, NJ passed away peacefully on Monday, September 20, 2021 after a long battle with cancer. Al – affectionately known as “Moose” to many – could often be seen around town selling pickles and nuts late at night and delivering magazines throughout Cape May County with his beloved basset hound. Most recently, he could be found at the end of his driveway holding a town-hall meeting with neighbors and smoking a cigar with a McDonald’s Diet Coke in his hand. Al is preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, Nancy Bretz of Harrisburg, Pa.; his parents Alva Sr. and Iris J., and brother Garrett. He is survived by his two adult children and four grandchildren whom he loved dearly and already miss his presence greatly. His daughter Nicole Karl Ernst (husband Joseph) and their children Addison and Zachary; his son Adam (fiancé Christine) and his two children Ava and Adam (“AJ”). Raised in Wildwood Crest, Al returned home after retiring from a 40+ year career as a Senior Scientist for General Dynamics (previously Systems Research Laboratories) in Dayton, Ohio. He was proud to have served in the SAFE organization for many years, including as President, to ensure safe ejection and escape systems for military aircraft. Al was a veteran of the United States Air Force, member of the local VFW Hall and Moose Lodge. Al did not want a service, but will be privately laid to rest with his family at Fairview Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his honor to the American Cancer Society and condolences sent directly to his family.