It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Karl Rudolph Kettler Jr. on August 8, 2024 in Hackettstown, NJ. He was 86 years old.

Karl who was affectionately known as Whitey was born on February 1, 1938 in Elizabeth, NJ to Karl Kettler Sr and Caroline Martha (Sawicki). Whitey grew up and resided in Long  Valley for most of his life.  He loved the National Football League and was a Dallas Cowboys fan in his younger years. He however most enjoyed watching NASCAR racing and watched the televised races faithfully.

He served in the Army National guard for 6 years and was honorably discharged in 1963. Whitey was a cross-country tractor trailer driver for 20 years and also worked for Coveney Trucking as a dump truck hauler, then becoming a mechanic for CKB Trucking.

Whitey became ‘Mr. Mom’ and took care of the household and his three children after being injured on the job. He was an amazing chef who loved to cook and he proudly prepared amazing meals for everyone. He also loved to keep active and was often outside working in the yard, mowing the lawn or fixing things. He was a great storyteller and had an amazing memory that allowed him to recount specific dates and times of events many years ago.

Whitey is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Linda Kettler (Jarkovsky), son Karl and his wife Kimberly Kettler; daughter Stacy and her husband Ben Poto.

Whitey and Linda were inseparable and did everything together always side-by-side.  Whitey and Linda were able to enjoy 14 years vacationing in the winter months in Florida until selling their home there. Whitey loved being in Florida and would often be seen playing shuffleboard, card games, driving his golf cart around, attending the clubhouse socials and shooting the breeze with his many friends.

Whitey was blessed with four grandchildren. Grandson Austin Riley Kettler, Granddaughter Alexis Sophia Kettler and grandsons Nicholas Michael Poto and Christian Joseph (CJ) Poto. He cherished his time with his grandchildren the most.  He loved playing games and sharing food with them.

Whitey was predeceased by his parents and his son, Michael Joseph Kettler.

Visitation will be held at Cochran Funeral Home, 905 High Street, Hackettstown, NJ 07840 on Tuesday, August 13, 2024 from 6:00-9:00PM. Those wishing to leave an online condolence may do so at www.cochranfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.