Karl F. Schmidt

Karl F. Schmidt, 61, of Elizabethtown, passed away on Sunday, July 28, 2024. He was born June 12, 1963, in Illinois to the late Anthony and Suzanne (Elredge) Schmidt.

Karl graduated high school and started a career as a police officer in Chicago and five years as a volunteer firefighter in Elizabethtown. In 1994, Karl moved to the area to escape Chicago's crime and to take over a campground. He transformed it from a rundown site into a highly rated KOA campground. His interest in this venture was perhaps influenced by his scouting background, having earned the rank of Eagle Scout as a child. He had a lifelong passion for the outdoors and nature. He was a quiet, but very intelligent man with a dry sense of humor that made everyone laugh. Not to mention the occasional sarcastic Dad jokes. He was a fan of music from the 60s, 70s, and 80s, with favorites including AC/DC, The Cars, Tom Petty, and The Beach Boys. A true Jack of all trades, Karl could fix nearly anything. If he didn’t know how to do something, he would research and find a solution. He held several licenses relevant to his business, including sewer treatment operator, pesticide applicator, and food safety manager. Over the years, Karl developed many relationships with fellow campground owners and related businesses. He was highly respected in the camping community for his expertise and served on the boards of the Pennsylvania Campground Owners Association and the KOA Owners Association.

He is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Linda Schmidt; two daughters, Stephanie Vargas and Victoria Painter; a son, Thomas Schmidt; stepchildren, Michelle Krueger-Mickles, Brian Kreuger and Jeff Krueger; grandchildren, Everly, Ian, Evan, Malachi, Beckett, Jesse, Tyler, Chloe, Nic and Idubin, Jr.; siblings, Peter Schmidt and Adrienne Schmidt. Alongside his family, he cherished his pet Corgis—Sam, Tanner, and his grand-dog, Callie. He had a deep love for his wife, children, and grandchildren, often giving them affectionate nicknames like Bunny, Ducky, Twink, Little Bean, Nugget, and Burrito.

Family and friends are invited for a time of remembrance on Sunday, August 4th from 2 to 3 PM at Stevens Hill Community Church of the Brethren. 3131 Turnpike Road, Elizabethtown, PA 17022. There will be a social time to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his honor to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10306.  Condolences and memories may be shared at www.finkenbinderfamily.comand memories may be shared at www.finkenbinderfamily.com