Obituary Detail
December 22, 2023
Karl C. Bird, Age:77
In loving memory of Karl C. Bird, a man of intellect, dedication, and kindness, whose life's journey left an enduring mark on the realms of knowledge and public service. Karl was born on October 19, 1946, in Oklahoma, to Karl Mitchel Bird and Maxine Pauline Fleming Bird. He peacefully departed this world on December 22, 2023, at the age of 77.
Karl's educational odyssey was a testament to his remarkable thirst for knowledge. He earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Central State University in Edmond, Oklahoma, in 1968, laying the groundwork for a lifetime of academic achievements. Subsequently, he attained his Master of Business Administration degree from East Texas State University in Texarkana in 1976, and in 1988, he achieved a Juris Doctorate with magna cum laude honors from Capital University Law School in Columbus, Ohio. Karl's pursuit of excellence extended to leadership programs, including the prestigious Leadership for a Democratic Society at the Federal Executive Institute in Charlottesville, Virginia, and the Program for Senior Officials in National Security at Harvard University in 1991 and 1993, respectively. He further refined his skills in the Defense Leadership and Management Program in 2001 and earned a Master of Science degree in national resource strategy in 2003.
Karl's professional journey led him through Texas, Georgia, California, and Ohio, encompassing four continents and thirty-nine cities. His dedication to excellence was exemplified during his tenure as the Director of Contracting at the Space and Missile Systems Center, Los Angeles Air Force Base, California. He played a pivotal role in shaping space programs, managing over 600 contracts valued at more than $58 billion. His influence extended beyond the office as he advised on acquisition strategy, contracting processes, and reforms, leaving an enduring impact on the defense and technology landscape.
In his last employment as the Acquisition Division Manager at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, Karl led a division of 250 contracting professionals, awarding over $1.2 billion for Laboratory support and major Space Flight systems. His legacy included streamlining JPL's paperless contract system, demonstrating his precision and foresight in navigating the complexities of space exploration and technology.
Beyond his professional achievements, Karl leaves behind a loving family, including his wife, Elizabeth Ellison-Bird, his brother Clarke Bird, his daughter Kimberly Bird-Peters, his son-in-law John Peters, his son Karl Mitchell Bird, daughter-in-law Katie, stepson Tyler Ellison, stepdaughters Candace Ellison and Brittany Ellison, and a lineage of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
As we bid farewell to Karl C. Bird, let us remember him for the warmth and love he brought to his family and friends, his dedication to education, and his impactful contributions to the fields of defense and technology. A Memorial Service will be held at Prestonwood Church, 6801 W Park Blvd, Plano, Texas 75093, at 10:00 am, to honor and celebrate his extraordinary life. May he rest in peace, his legacy living on in the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Condolences
Karina Davila January 17, 2024
Prima Guadalajara ,
Elizabeth siento mucho tu pérdida te recuerdo con mucho cariño. Te mando un fuerte abrazo y muchas bendiciones
Kim January 22, 2024
Daughter Fort Worth , Texas
I remember Dad being active in our very small Presbyterian church in Hooks, Texas. He was an active leader and participant in coordinating a live nativity scene in front of the church each Christmas and cars came from miles lined up on the rural highway in front of the church. And he also frequently filled in to deliver Sunday sermons when our preach and his good friend became ill with cancer….he did this will working full-time and earning a masters degree at night and tending his family. Best most precious and driven father ever. He blessed us. Thank you, Dad. For the early days and so so much more.
Kay Overby January 22, 2024
High School Friend Colleyville , Texas
Praying for peace and comfort for Karl’s family. I met Karl when we were in grade school. We didn’t go to the same school, but his grandparents lived down the street from us, and we met when he was visiting them. He was always so nice, and I enjoyed his company. We both were privileged to be a part of the NEHS Class of 1964!!
Terry Posey January 24, 2024
Friend Centerville , Ohio
Karl, Bob Caspar and I met in the first semester in Law School. This began a lifetime friendship. We travelled from Dayton to Columbus four times a week and cured the ills of the world. Of course, Ronald Reagan happened to be the President so there were not many ills to speak of. It was a long time ago and most of the time, the discussions were about children and his/her accomplishments. The children are/were overachievers. Farewell, friend.
Cheryl Ortenburger January 24, 2024
Friend ,
I had the pleasure of working with Karl @ JPL as the senior HR Business partner for the Directorate. Karl was always friendly, respectful, kind, and helpful. He enjoyed creating teamwork & friendly competition among his team with events like the famous chili cook off. At our senior leadership meetings, Karl always enjoyed sharing success stories that members of his staff had accomplished. He definitely wanted to “shine the spotlight on others, rather than himself “. This trait also carried over to family as he shared their accomplishments too! Karl always had a ready smile for everyone and loved sharing stories that made us all laugh. I remember the day that Karl told me about his new love interest, Elizabeth. I was in his office to discuss a business issue, but I quickly realized Karl was very smitten with this lady and he wanted to share his excitement. It was wonderful to see him so happy. Karl and I also shared a love of dogs so we often exchanged stories of our pups and their antics. After he left JPL, we became FB friends. Karl always posted loving comments and pictures about family. Karl seemed so happy in his hard earned retirement. He definitely will be missed. Condolences to his loving family. Keeping you all in my thoughts & prayers. RIP Karl.
