Karl Lombard Briel

Karl Briel, a Worcester insurance and banking businessman, died on June 18, 2015. In November 1940, following graduation from Worcester Academy, Karl joined the Royal Canadian Air Force, earning an officer’s commission as a pilot. During flight training in Canada, he also attended the University of Saskatchewan. After the United States entered World War II, he transferred to the United States Army Air Corps in May 1942. During his service career, Karl was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, and a Presidential Citation with two Oak Leaf Clusters. His professional career encompassed executive positions in both the insurance and banking industries, and his involvement in civic and cultural affairs was extensive. He served as president of the board and treasurer of Worcester Academy, president and secretary of the Worcester Club, and was a member of the St. Wulstan Society. He was a corporator of the Worcester Art Museum and a member of the collections committee there for nineteen years. His other directorships included the Family Service Organization, the District Nursing Society, the Performing Arts School of Worcester, Homestead Hall/Goddard House, and the Sharon Art Center. He served on the board of trustees at the Worcester Hahnemann Hospital, the Garden City Waldorf School, Trustees of Reservations, Worcester County Music Association, and Old Sturbridge Village. He was also actively involved with AAS, serving on the Society’s Council and the investment committee for many years.