Carl Frederick Reiber

Carl Frederick Reiber, a retired Colonel in the United States Army, passed away unexpectedly on March 8, 2026, at his home. Born in New Haven, Connecticut, to the late Carl and Mamie Reiber, he lived a life defined by deep commitment to family, faith, and service to others.

Carl graduated from Hamden High School, earned his degree from Providence College, and later received an MBA from Syracuse University. He served two combat tours in Vietnam and went on to build a respected career at Boeing. A man of strong faith, he was a longtime member of Holy Redeemer by the Sea Catholic Church and St. Brendan the Navigator Catholic Church. He served as past Commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in the Outer Banks, North Carolina, and as a current member of the Board of Directors for Chapter 1030 of the Vietnam Veterans of America in Cumming, Georgia. He found great meaning in volunteering with fellow veterans and was also a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 8759.

He was an avid Civil War history enthusiast, maintained an impressive train collection, and enjoyed working in his shop and yard. Carl took pride in staying informed on current events and welcomed spirited discussions on any topic, always expecting others to come well prepared.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Linda Katherine Reiber, with whom he shared 55 years of marriage. They met at Hamden High School, married after his graduation from Providence College, and raised three children together. The couple cherished their summers in the Outer Banks, where they eventually purchased a home and retired. In September 2018, Carl married Wilma Rae Hartke, who survives him. Together they remained active in their church and enjoyed quiet times with friends, often sharing meals at The Station House or Cracker Barrel.

Above all, Carl treasured his role as “Papa.” He was endlessly proud of his family and cherished every opportunity to visit or speak with them. He is survived by his children, Dr. Carl Leonard Reiber (Janet), Dale Lynn Martin (Jonathan), and Timothy James Reiber (Marie); his grandchildren, Dallas Marie Witherell (Tyler), Carlee Elizabeth Hanchak (JJ), Brandon James Reiber, Taylor Grace Martin, Dylan Elizabeth Martin, and Elijah Luke Martin; his great-grandchildren, Emalynn Grace Hanchak and Johnathon Everett Hanchak; his sister, Barbara M. Reiber; his sister-in-law, Susan McDaniel; and Wilma’s children, Don Hartke (Gina) and Kathy Wolf (Tom), along with their extended families, all of whom he considered a cherished part of his life.