Karl Richard Gettmann

Karl Richard Gettmann, 86, of Georgetown, South Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, August 8, 2026.

Born in Santa Maria, California, Karl was the son of the late Dorothy Mae Charles and Karl Adam Gettmann. His life was marked by adventure, service, hard work, family, faith, and a genuine appreciation for the finer things in life.

Karl’s childhood was anything but ordinary. He grew up with this family on the mission field in Venezuela, an experience that shaped his perspective on the world and gave him appreciation for different cultures, people and places. As a young man, he returned to the United States and began building a life that would take him around the country and, through his career, to many parts of the world.

A man who believed in hard work and perseverance, Karl built a successful career in sales that allowed him to travel extensively and meet people from many walks of life. His work ethic remained strong throughout his life. Even after retiring from his primary career, Karl continued working part time in his local community. He was not one to simply sit still in retirement; staying active, working and contributing were simply part of who he was.

Karl was also a man of service. As a young man, he proudly served the United States Air Force. Later in retirement, he continued that spirit of service through the Coast Guard Auxiliary. His commitment to serving others remained an important part of his life long after his military service had ended.

On the home front, Karl was devoted to his family. He shared 40 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Lavonn Gettmann. Together, they built a life filled with family, travel, good food, memorable experiences, and the many adventures that came with Karl’s zest for life.

Karl was a proud father of six children: Richard Eric Gettmann of Maryland; Deborah Jane Carter of Ohio; Karl Douglas Gettmann of Tennessee; Donja Long of Georgia; and Xandra Moreno of Georgia. He was predeceased by his son Karl David Gettmann.

He is also survived by 15 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, each carrying forward a part of his story and legacy.

Karl is also survived by his sister Barbara Shelor of Nebraska, and his brother, Alan Gettmann of Ohio. He was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Ellen Oneill of California.

Karl was a man with many passions and deep appreciation for life’s pleasures. He had a particular love for fine wine, fine dining, and his beloved Miata. He enjoyed fishing and golf, and he appreciated the simple pleasure of being outdoors, spending time with others, and enjoying the experiences that made life memorable.

Those who knew Karl will remember him not only for the places he traveled or the work he accomplished, but for the life he lived. He was hardworking, independent, curious, and committed to staying engaged with the world around him. His life reflected a willingness to serve, a desire to keep moving forward, and an appreciation for family, friendship, food, travel, and the many experiences life had to offer.

His faith was an important part of the life he shared with his family. Though his family mourns his passing, they also celebrate a life that was full of purpose, adventure, service, and love.

Karl leaves behind a family that will miss his presence and his stories. His life touched many people in many places, and his memory will continue through his children , grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family, friends, and all those whose lives he influenced along the way.

A funeral service and celebration of Karl’s life will be held and a later date. Additional details will be announced by the family.

In remembering Karl, we choose not only to grieve his absence, but also to celebrate the extraordinary journey of his 86 years----a journey that began in California, continued through the mission field of Venezuela, carried him through his career, including honorable service to his country, and ultimately brought him home to Georgetown, South Carolina.

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever a part of the family he leaves behind.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.ridgewayfh.com

Ridgeway Funeral Home of Georgetown is in charge of the arrangements. (843) 485-4242