Karl W. Noltemeier

Karl W. Noltemeier, 97, of Rockford, passed away on Monday, December 29, 2025. 

Karl was born in Freeport, IL on February 27, 1928, the son of William and Esther (Heilman) Noltemeier. He graduated from Freeport High School and went on to earn his master’s degree in divinity and later earned a master’s degree as a licensed clinical social worker through Washington University in St. Louis. Karl married Katherine Louise Mast on August 3, 1952, in Elkhart, IN.

He served as pastor for Sharon E.U.B. Church for several years and later attended Court Street United Methodist Church in Rockford. Throughout his ministry as a pastor, Karl developed a true passion for talking to people and counseling them which led to his career of clinical social work. He grew up on a farm which led him to appreciate taking excellent care of his home and garden and always keeping the lawn well-maintained. Karl had a knack for adventure as he traveled various parts of the world with family and friends, including a road trip with a friend to Fairbanks, Alaska near the Arctic Circle at a very young age. He also traveled to several parts of Central America and Mexico with his son, Doug. Karl enjoyed doing puzzles and playing many fun games with his family, who meant the most to him. 

Surviving relatives include his wife, Louise Noltemeier; children, Doug (Deyi) Noltemeier and Cindy (Rex) Woods; 4 grandchildren, Jason, Raquel, Austin and Heidi and several nieces and nephews. Karl is preceded in death by his parents, an infant daughter, Dawn Louise Noltemeier in 1956 and his sister, Ruth Lillian Reuber.