Stephen J. Karakash

1935 - 2016

After a 10 year battle with Parkinson's disease, Steve died peacefully, with family by his side. Less than two weeks prior he was fortunate enough to spend quality time in the sunshine with Laura and his son, Ed, eating pastries - he never lost that sweet tooth! Steve (Dubby), son of Stephen and Ann Karakash, was born and raised in Chisholm, Minn. He attended Chisholm High School, where he excelled in sports, particularly basketball. He dreamed of becoming successful and promised his mother that one day he would buy her a mink coat. He joined the Air Force and moved to Alaska in 1954. A couple of years later, he joined Yukon Office Supply as a salesman in Anchorage, Alaska. The business thrived and he became President in 1976, at which time there were nine stores in the state. He further expanded into Hawaii and Seattle, Wash., before selling the company in 1985, and retiring to Sun Valley, Idaho. His mother got her mink coat, which she wore at every opportunity, even when it became two sizes too small! Steve thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors - golfing, hiking, biking, fishing, skiing and shoveling snow before it even hit the ground. He also enjoyed the social life sharing good food, wine and music with friends. In 2000, Steve moved to Eagle, Idaho, where he lived until he was no longer able to be independent. For the last six years he has been living in Bothell, Wash., close to family, with whom he has enjoyed weekly visits. He continued to enjoy outings, music and food and grew a stronger appreciation of nature and a fondness for animals. Steve is survived by his daughter, Laura; sons, Edward (Melissa), Steve (Tammy) and Jim (Tara); sister, Rosemary (Stan); and his former wife and friend, Vera.