Karl James Edward Pond

Karl James Edward Pond, 81, of Hendersonville, NC, completed his earthly mission after a long illness on December 22, 2025. Karl was born in Kansas City, MO on March 29, 1944. A man of deep integrity, generous spirit, and boundless curiosity, he lived a life defined by service, love, and exuberant joy.

He was dearly loved by his three sons and their families, cherished by a wide circle of friends, and devoted above all to his wife, Cynthia, whose partnership and love were the great joy of his life. Karl was preceded in death by his father Karl Serge Edward Pond, and his mother Mary Evelyn Pond. He is survived by his wife Cynthia Pond, son Casey (Nancee), son George (Melanie), and son Andy (Hannah), as well as his seven grandchildren: Reid, Ruby, Ryder, Adele, John, Evie, and Matthew. He is survived by his brother Ed Pond, brother Serge (Lesley) Pond, and brother-in-law George (Deborah) Reeves.

A veteran and captain in the United States Navy, he served his country and community with honor and a steadfast sense of civic duty all of his life. He was a pilot in the Navy He was a loyal friend and often a mentor to others, encouraging them to see their own strengths and providing guidance and unconditional support to those along his path. Following his retirement from the Navy, he transitioned to civilian employment with IBM. He spent years with IBM as an executive leadership trainer whose global project management team was so effective that the Navy adopted his curriculum. His generosity of time and spirit extended well beyond his professional life in the U.S. Navy. Over the years, he was an active member of several Anglican and Episcopal churches, and served on their vestries at different times. He also frequently volunteered with AARP to assist others with tax preparation. Karl grew up in Miami, FL, and graduated from Coral Gables High School. An Eagle Scout himself, Karl volunteered with the Scouts of America. He was a proud Florida State University alumnus, and later received an MBA from Boston University and a JD from the University of Miami.He was energetic and optimistic, and had the ability to find the bright spot in any situation and the strength in any person. Accepting, joyful, and endlessly curious, he loved to learn, especially about history, political science, law, and technology. A lover of gadgets, he often had a new tech toy to show off. As a world traveler, he and Cynthia embraced new cultures and devoured the natural beauty wherever they went. He had a playfully irreverent and witty sense of humor that delighted many around him. Music held a special place in his heart, and he was a devoted supporter of local musicians, believing strongly in the importance of art and community. He also loved outdoor adventures, and he was a proud patron of Eagle’s Nest Foundation, whose mission is providing experiential education for young people to promote the material world and the betterment of human character. 

Above all else, he was a loyal and devoted husband to Cynthia. Their marriage was a partnership marked by deep love and shared purpose, and it stood as the foundation of his life. He leaves behind a legacy of service, joy, and unwavering love, one that lives on in his family, his friends, and all those whose lives were strengthened by knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Karl’s memory to the Eagle’s Nest Foundation at https://www.enf.org/enf-ways-to-give/.A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

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