Karl E. Gansberg Jr.

Karl Emil Gansberg was born on December 26, 1932 in Jersey City, New Jersey and departed this life on November 17, 2025 in Bristow, Virginia surrounded by his family. He was the son of Karl Langraf-Gansberg and Katherine Pfrommer. He was blessed with a daughter, Sharon Ann, with his late first wife Sylvia Merriman. Forty-seven years ago, Karl met his devoted wife, JoAnne, and gained three stepdaughters whom he cared about deeply.. Karl dedicated his life to serving his country. He spent 27 years in active military service between the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Army, followed by 15 years of civil service with the Department of Defense, and more than a decade volunteering at Quantico National Cemetery. During his military career, he was stationed in England, France, North Africa, Korea, Vietnam, and many U.S. states. After retirement, Karl and JoAnne travelled extensively all over the world. Karl had a deep pride and passion for all military history. He was a long time Dallas Cowboys fan. He loved music and was a DJ for many years. His greatest joy came from his family and he most recently delighted in having a great-grandson. Karl also adored his Siamese cats, especially his Scrapper. Karl is survived by his beloved wife, JoAnne Gansberg; his daughter, Sharon Levy (Larry); and his stepdaughters, Donna Akers, Lisa Skelton (Brooks), and Nancy Akers (Roman). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Shaun Irvin (Karine), Krystal Lipke (Brad), and Nygel Irvin; his step-granddaughter, Christina Strand (Dereck); his great-grandson, Christopher Lipke; and his half-sister, Gail Foster. Karl’s playful spirit and laughter brought immense joy to his family and friends, and he will be dearly missed by all who loved him. His memory will live on in the stories, laughter, and love he shared with those around him. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, November 26, at Pierce Funeral Home in Manassas, VA, with visitation beginning at 10AM and the service at 11AM. Interment will follow at 1PM at Quantico National Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held at 2PM at Pierce Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Toys for Tots or the Christian Appalachian Project

Karl E. Gansberg Jr.

December 26, 1932 - November 17, 2025