Joseph Alex Kariakin, 83 years of age, husband to Rosemary Kariakin for nearly 52 years, passed from this life to his eternal life with the Lord on June 5, 2024. He is survived by his beloved wife Rose, his three children Elizabeth, Joshua, and Deborah, and his three remaining grandchildren Lydia, Annika, and Liam. He is preceded in death by his grandson Luke, his parents, two siblings, and four nephews.
Joe was born May 7, 1941 in Los Angeles, CA to Alex and Kathryn Kariakin. He was a first-generation American, and his family held strongly to their Russian Molokon faith and customs. He graduated from Garfield High School in East LA, and went on to study art at LA Trade Tech College. His interests included photography, art, and design. These talents came into play later in life when after many years in the field of concrete construction, he extensively developed his own construction innovations and patents.
Joe was a talented, hardworking, unique man, who dedicated his life to God and his family. He had a strong passion for helping people in need, and he and his family hosted many individuals and families in their home over the years. Joe loved to explore, taking his family on countless road trips and adventures. He loved music, history, the ocean, camping, spending time with family and friends, a good bbq get-together, and creating and developing his building projects.
Throughout his life, Joe often faced challenges with health, work, and family. Yet he rarely complained, instead turning his thoughts to how he could help others who were struggling. He made a practice of expressing gratitude for what he had, despite the circumstances. Grand storytelling and laughing were ways Joe connected best with others, and he never met a stranger. Joe will be sorely missed by his wife, family, and loved ones.