Karl E. Opatrny

KARL E. OPATRNY age 63, beloved husband of Dr. Kathleen Blanc; loving father of Annie and Kyle Opatrny; dog dad to "Z;" cherished son of the late Edwin and Anne (nee Kapina) Opatrny; dearest brother of Dennis (wife June), and Kenneth (wife Phyllis) and brother-in-law of Annette and the late Jim Berzinskas, Betty and Chad Ruben; devoted uncle of Samantha (husband Tim Berry), Lexi, Anthony, and Christopher Opatrny, Juliana, and Alyssa Ruben; and great uncle of 4 (Camdyn, Kaleb, Owen, and Wyatt).

Karl was born on December 30, 1962, in Euclid, Ohio. He graduated from Wickliffe High School and went on to work for Lubrizol where he met his beloved wife of 36 years, Kathleen, and the two went on to build a beautiful life and family together in Kirtland. During his career at Lubrizol, Karl was also honored with the prestigious Founders Award, an accomplishment he was very proud of and only few achieved.

Karl enjoyed playing golf with his buddies, and traveling with his family, always ready to plan the next warm vacation. On any given day you could stop over for a game of cards (with a beer of course) and always be greeted with his warm and contagious smile. He will be remembered for his generous, helpful, and friendly personality. Karl seemed to know everyone wherever he went and never met a stranger who didn't become his friend. His outgoing personality made him someone people naturally enjoyed being around, and the devotion to his family and friends will be deeply missed by all that knew him.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Karl to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation HERE.

Prayers of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 9:30 AM at THE FUNERAL HOME. Burial following at All Souls Cemetery. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Karl at THE DeJOHN-FLYNN-MYLOTT FUNERAL HOME OF WILLOUGHBY HILLS COMMUNITY ROOM, 28890 CHARDON ROAD (between Bishop Rd. and Rt. 91) FRIDAY from 4 - 8 PM.