Karl E. Pfingst, 63, passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2026, at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset in Somerville, New Jersey.

Born on August 20, 1962, in Staten Island, New York, Karl was the son of the late Richard and Caroline Pfingst. Soon after his birth, his family moved to Warren, New Jersey, where he was raised. He later spent time living in Hunterdon County before eventually returning to Warren.

Karl worked in the family business, Pfingst & Company, a leading supplier of dental and dental laboratory instruments, tools, and equipment, as well as jewelry manufacturing and finishing products, also providing advanced tools for jewelers, toolmakers, woodcarvers, artists, and hobbyists. A proud third-generation family business, Pfingst & Company remains in operation today under the care of his brother, Greg, who continues the family tradition.

Karl had a passion for race cars and was a car enthusiast throughout his life. He also enjoyed collecting model trains, snow skiing, water skiing, and boating. He loved to travel, whether it was a memorable trip to Japan or a simple road trip with his boys to Ocean City, Maryland, or the Pocono Mountains. No matter the destination, Karl found joy in the journey.

Karl was passionate about protecting the forest and wildlife, and developed a stewardship plan for his former property in Hunterdon County.

One of Karl’s greatest passions was service to others. He dedicated much of his life to volunteering with local rescue squads. Most recently, he was involved with the Long Hill Township First Aid Squad, though his commitment to helping others extended across several communities over the years. He was always willing to step forward and be of service wherever he was needed.

He was a man of strong Christian faith, finding guidance and comfort in the Lord throughout his life.

Karl is survived by his sons, Nathan and Kurtis; his brother, Greg Pfingst, and Greg’s wife, Marianne; and his dear friend, Meg, with whom he shared a close and lasting bond over many years.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Higgins Home For Funerals, 752 Mountain Boulevard, Watchung, New Jersey, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 noon at the funeral home. Cremation services will be held privately.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Karl’s memory may be made to the Long Hill First Aid Squad, P.O. Box 145, Gillette, NJ 07933.