Karin Engelberg Maxwell

Karin Engelberg Maxwell, 84, of Fayetteville, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2025.

Karin was born on February 10, 1941, in Munich, Germany, to the late Dorothea McKenzie and Kurt Engelberg. At seven years old, she came to the United States, where she quickly adapted to the language and culture. A gifted student, she graduated as a   salutatorian of her high school class in 1958. She later went on to build a successful career at Fort Bragg, retiring as Deputy Comptroller of the U.S. Army Special Operations Command after 27 years of dedicated service.

In 1960, she married her first husband, George Shepherd Sr. Together they raised their two children, and maintained a close friendship even after separating. It was in 1981 that Karin married the love of her life, Dan Maxwell. They were inseparable, sharing 39 joyful years of love and laughter. Together they traveled around the world, particularly enjoying the beauty of Europe, Lake Junaluska and Joe’s Pond, Vermont. Karin enjoyed completing puzzles at home, watching her favorite soap operas, and spending time outdoors. She was a devoted member of Hay Street United Methodist Church and lived with an unwavering faith in Jesus. Karin was dearly beloved by her family, and she cherished every moment spent with them. She will be remembered for her wisdom, kindness, and thoughtful spirit. Her life was a beautiful testimony to faith, family, and quiet strength. Though our hearts ache with her passing, we rejoice in knowing that she is healed and in the presence of the Lord.

Along with her parents, Karin was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Daniel Maxwell Sr.; her sister, Rosi Hilton; her infant son, Kurt Shepherd; and her first husband, George Shepherd Sr.

She is survived by her children: Susan Cellner (Robert) and George Shepherd Jr. (Laurie); stepchildren, Kathryn Rhodes (Dusty), Linda Maxwell, Martha Gideon (Randy), and Daniel Maxwell Jr.; her sisters, Helge Grill and Sylvia Flowers; her grandchildren, Laura, Christina, Samantha, Carson, Charlotte, Dustin, Crissie, Daniel, Nolan, Auldon, Ian, Billy, and Max; great grandchildren Georgia, Scarlett, Johnnie, Asher, Tucker, Benjamin, Rush, Kailyn, Madeleine, Ila, Izy, Isaac, and Peyton.

The family would like to thank the dedicated caregivers from Home Instead who were so helpful to Karin during the last few months.

A memorial service will be held at 2:30pm on Monday, July 7th, 2025, at the Rogers and Breece Chapel, with Reverend David Woodhouse officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service between 1 and 2:15pm. There will be a graveside service at 11am on Friday, July 11, 2025, at Lafayette Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to Hay Street United Methodist Church, 320 Hay Street, Fayetteville, NC 28301, or a favorite charity of your choice.

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