Karl L. Heinke

Karl Laurence Heinke, 77, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away peacefully October 14, 2026.

Karl was born on February 5, 1949, in Columbus, Ohio, to Clarence H. and Frances Heinke. He grew up in Bexley, attending Bexley schools from elementary through high school. A talented mind, Karl graduated from Capital University in 1971 with a bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics. Following graduation, he proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps from 1971 to 1979. He was on active duty until 1976 and later served in the Reserves, achieving the rank of Captain.

After his military service, Karl put his analytical skills to work as a structural engineer for commercial building contracting firms in southeastern Ohio. Karl reconnected with his former high school friend, Toni, who was living in Tucson and upon his retirement in 2011, decided to head west.

Karl possessed a profound love for photography and the great outdoors, frequently traveling to National Parks. His lens captured countless stunning sunsets, majestic saguaros, and dramatic rock formations. To escape the desert heat, Karl and Toni spent their summers in beautiful northern New Mexico, a place where they developed many deep, lasting friendships over the years.

An exceptionally kind soul, Karl never met a dog he didn’t like. While living in Ohio, he rescued countless dogs and cats. In Arizona, he and Toni rescued Bob, a yellow lab, and Gladys, a black lab. True to Karl’s adventurous spirit, both dogs traveled with them to more states than most people visit in a lifetime. Karl was also an avid sports fan; he passionately cheered for both the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Arizona Wildcats, and he had the extensive t-shirt wardrobe to prove it.

Karl is survived by his best friend, Toni; his beloved furry companion, Calvin, who never left his side; and his sisters, Sally Rosin and Linda An Savage (Jim). He also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, as well as a large, vibrant community of high school, college, and social media friends who will dearly miss their daily conversations about sports and the ever-changing political climate. Karl was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Frances Heinke, and his brother-in-law, Fred Rosin.

True to his wishes, there will be no grand memorial service. Instead, Karl will be remembered right where he loved to be. His celebration of life will take place across the country via Parting Stones, allowing family and friends to hold individual celebrations and place remembrances in his favorite places