Carl Redlin

Carl Redlin, an energetic soul as vibrant as the skies he loved to soar, passed away peacefully at his home on December 7, 2025, with his beloved family. He was a true legend, remaining strong and sharp until his last day. Born on January 28, 1931, in Detroit, MI, Carl led an extraordinary life, leaving behind a legacy that will forever resonate within the hearts of those who knew him.

Throughout his incredible 94 years, Carl embodied a spirit of adventure, health, and success. Graduating Magna Cum Laude from the University of Detroit in 1954, and securing a "Mr. Detroit" title for body building, he remained in Detroit for a few years before beginning a 3-year tour of duty as a Lieutenant in the US Coast Guard. He began an illustrious career as an aerospace engineer with McDonnell Douglas in 1961, which began his journey in California. After "living it up" in Los Angeles in early 30s, he settled in Seal Beach in the 1960s, a town he was incredibly passionate about, where he enjoyed much of his next 60 years. In December 1971, Carl met his "sweetie pie" Kay, out at the Golden Sails on her 35th birthday, where the two enjoyed a night of dancing and became true lovers from that day onward, for the next 54 years. Married in 1976, the couple soon moved to Park City, Utah, where they embarked on a journey as owner/operators of McDonald's Restaurants. During his career in McDonalds, he and Kay often found time to come back to Seal Beach, spending much of their time on their 44 ft sailboat, which they sailed around the California and Mexico coasts. His professional life was marked not only by tremendous success but also inspiring adventure, bringing him and Kay on trips around the world. Carl was a fun-loving guy, full of life, whose intelligence and handsome demeanor never faded, even into his 90s.

Carl’s love for his family was unparalleled. He was always there, cheering on his grandkids at every event, embracing both the big milestones and the small, everyday moments that brought them all joy. His dedication, love, and unwavering support for family will always be remembered by his loving wife, Kay Redlin, his step-daughter, Kelly Martinez, his nephew and friend, Frank Gonzalez, step-son and grandsons Mark Isenberg and Michael and Randy Isenberg, and his cherished grandchildren: Melanie and Natalie Martinez. The laughter and love he shared with his great-grandsons, Kayden and Carter Vivier, are treasures they will carry with them forever. Of all Carl had to be proud of, he once shared that his deepest pride stemmed from the close-knit bonds that his family was able to maintain, in large part due to the close physical proximity that kept them together. These daily interactions, especially with his granddaughter and great-grandchildren, enriched their lives and have created a legacy of love and connection that will endure always.

Beyond his family, Carl was an adventurer at heart. He found joy in fly fishing, deep sea fishing, sailing, and soared high as a sailplane pilot, reaching elevations of 30,000 feet that took his spirit to new heights. He had a passion for model airplanes since childhood, a hobby that allowed him to express his creativity and intelligence. His model airplane competitions took him around the United States, and even to Europe in 1961 with the AMA Nationals (NATS) where he showcased American excellence in model aviation, when he and two other USA team members dominated the World Indoor Championships. He has many cherished friends he held dear in his heart that he made through this beloved sport. Carl was forever tinkering with his models until his last days. He was an energetic man who made the most of every moment and inspired those around him to do the same with his famous phrase ... "live it up!".

Carl now joins his siblings, brother Ronald Redlin and sister Betty Clintworth, who have predeceased him, to rest in Paradise with The Good Lord. Their memories remain with him, sharing in the love he carried throughout his life.

As we gather to celebrate the remarkable life of Carl Redlin, we invite all who knew him to join in celebrating his life on January 17th, 2026 with a funeral service at St. Anne's Catholic Church in Seal Beach, CA, at 11am, a burial at Forrest Lawn, Cypress at 12:30pm, followed by a celebration of life at his favorite place- The Hangout Restaurant & Beach Bar on Main Street in Seal Beach, CA at 2:30pm. A fitting tribute to a man whose life was a celebration of adventure, love, and dedication.

Carl's absence will be profoundly felt by all who knew him, yet his legacy will endure, living on in the hearts of his family, friends, and anyone fortunate enough to have known this remarkable man.