Karl G. Reis Obituary

Karl Gene Reis (age 76), passed peacefully at home surrounded by the love of his entire family on February 9, 2026.

Born on June 18, 1949, to Peter and Dorothy Reis, and raised by grandparents, Paul and Susanna Block, he grew up in Saginaw, Michigan. On April 24, 1971, he married the love of his life, Kathleen (Hart). Together they raised their family, built and ran small businesses, and created a welcoming warm home they loved.

Karl was the jack of all trades, capable of making or fixing just about anything. He established Swan Creek Aquariums in 1986, and for more than 15 years he built custom aquariums for businesses and pet stores across the state.

Life’s simple pleasures brought him the most happiness. Spending time with family and being in the great outdoors were among his favorite things. He enjoyed a good camping trip with his loved ones, sitting around the bonfire with a cup of coffee, or an early morning fishing trip on the lake. He could often be found clearing new fallen snow, enjoying the smell of freshly cut grass from his lawnmower, or splitting wood amongst the trees- that was his happy place. He cherished hunting season and time with loved ones at his brother Bob’s deer camp in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. He loved antiques, Harley Davidson motorcycles, hot rods, car shows, his dogs, cats, children, grandchildren, friends- and above all- he loved his wife, Kathy.

In addition to Kathy, Karl, is survived by his children, Jason Gorman (Allison), Kimberly Bell (Brig), and Kristin Knoll (Josh). He took much pride and incredible joy in each of his grandchildren- Kaitlyn, Michaela, Alyssa, Hannah, Ryan, Jonah and Nora. He leaves behind his loving brother, Bob Reis (Sandi), brother and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and many friends he met and found connection with throughout his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters (Susanna Kennedy and Yvonne Shaft) and brother (Paul Reis).

While chapters of his life were challenging, Karl will always be remembered for his genuine heart, hard work, persistence, goofy unique sense of humor, and desire to offer a helping hand to others. 

A funeral service will take place at 1:00 p.m. Friday, February 13, 2026, at the W. L. Case and Company Funeral Home, 201 N. Miller Road, Saginaw. Friends may visit the family on Friday from 10:30 a.m. until the time of the service. All attire is welcomed, including flannel, Carhartts, and jeans. A private burial will take place at St. Andrews Cemetery.

The family would like to thank the many compassionate people at Covenant HealthCare who throughout the past 8 months have taken incredible care of Karl.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to your favorite local animal rescue or shelter.

Please share your words of condolence with the family at www.casefuneralhome.com