Renaissance Marquis resident Carl Honecker’s story is one of craftsmanship, curiosity and quiet dedication. Born on January 25, 1936, in the small town of Mountainside, New Jersey, Carl grew up as the youngest of four children in a lively household where family ties and the smell of fresh-cut lumber seemed to fill the air. His father, Hermann, was a master carpenter who built houses from the ground up—a skill he patiently shared with his sons on weekends and throughout long summer days.



Those early lessons in plumbing, electricity and woodworking gave Carl a foundation of practical knowledge and resourcefulness that would shape the rest of his life. After graduating from Jonathan Dayton Regional High School, Carl’s curiosity and determination led him to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, where he earned his degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1957.

Carl’s career took him to the heart of New York City as a project manager for J.O. Ross Engineering, and later as engineering manager at Kleissler Company. He even returned to his home state, lending his expertise as a consultant for the State of New Jersey. Along the way, he served his country in the U.S. Navy, attending Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island. Stationed in Yokosuka, Japan and living in Negishi Heights, Carl led a unit responsible for target drone services for the 7th Fleet—a role that required steady leadership and precise attention to detail.

But the work that may have meant the most to Carl is the work he did for family. Throughout his life, he found joy in woodworking, furniture refinishing, and crafting handmade dollhouses, tiny tables, and toys for his four children, seven grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. Each piece was more than a project; it was a gift, a way of connecting generations and passing down the tradition of creating something lasting with your own hands.

Since arriving at Renaissance Marquis in April 2024, Carl’s warmth and his quietly generous spirit have become part of the community’s fabric. His story—one built on skill, service and a love for family—continues to inspire those around him, reminding us all of the value in building, fixing and crafting a life filled with care.