He was adopted by Herman "Herb" & Ann Lassiter and later joined by brothers Tom & Ron. At a young age, he was very active in sports such as midget car racing, baseball, & wrestling. He played center position in football at Oxnard High School & Ventura Junior College. He received a football scholarship to University of Tulsa & graduated with a Business Degree in 1974.
That year he met Kathleen (nee Berns) in Ventura, California on a blind date, just as her parents had; however, she did not share that with him until he proposed! They married on September 20, 1975 in her hometown of Tillamook, Oregon. Upon returning to California, Karl and Kathleen settled in Carpenteria where Karl began his 35 year career with State Farm Insurance as an agent & financial advisor. They were blessed with a daughter, Kristen and a son, Kyle.
Karl was a generous, kind and thoughtful husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather & friend. One of his favorite things to do was taking his family on RV road trips, snow & water ski trips, and many other adventures. He enjoyed coaching Kyle's sports' teams and attending Kristen's dance recitals & plays. He was always there to help his children achieve their personal and professional goals.
He was a proud member of Rotary International for 35 years. His hobbies included golf, fly fishing & gardening. He loved working with his hands; whether it be simple chores around the house, or building a bar from the ground up, literally!
Karl was a devoted husband to Kathleen for 48 years; a loving father to Kristen Leyba (Lee), and Kyle Lassiter (Anne); and a doting grandfather to Ethan & Lily. He relished spending time with his family; especially the holidays. Christmas was his favorite!
He will be missed dearly by his family; brothers Tom (Lisa) and Ron; and many nieces & nephews, as well his numerous friends.
Per his wishes, services will be held privately and Karl's family and friends will celebrate his life in the way they deem most appropriate. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to: Pathways Hospice, 305 Carpenter Road, Fort Collins, CO 80525
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