Alexander Karim

Alexander Karim Sept. 1, 1915 Feb. 5, 2005 Died in Walnut Creek at age 89, after a stroke. Born in Paris, Alex was raised in France and Iran. He began his career as a civil engineer with the Iranian State Railways, where he became Chief Superintendent. In 1942, he married Azar Midokht (Faroughi), with whom he had two daughters. Alex was sent to America in 1947 to study passenger rail systems and decided to stay. His wife remained in Iran, ending the marriage. In 1948, Alex met Evelyne Bongrand, from France, a teacher at the University of Chicago Laboratory School. They married and settled in Berkeley, moving in 1953 to Walnut Creek, where they raised their six children. A devoted father, Alex volunteered as president of the Walnut Heights PTA and was a founder of Walnut Heights Swim Club. Alex worked for Kaiser Engineers, Bechtel, and Chevron before starting his own firm, which consulted to clients on five continents on bauxite mining. In retirement, his insatiable intellect led him to earn a master's in geology from the University of Nevada at age 76, and to begin doctoral studies in global change. Loving father and friend, artist, scientist, philosopher, Alex excelled in many spheres and instilled in his children a deep sense of purpose and a passion for inquiry. He shared his rich insights in lively discourse with all who knew him. We miss his vibrant and engaging presence. Alex is survived by Evelyne, brothers and sisters, Georges, Vincent Masude, Iran, and Azar, children, Cima (Tierdad), Lily (Saeed), Tallis, Avesta, Adlai, Zander (Laura), Felix (Libby), and Persis (Craig), thirteen grandchildren, one great grandchild, and many loved ones. Donations in his honor may be made to UNICEF Tsunami Relief, 1-800-4UNICEF. Inquiries about a memorial service on Sunday, February 27, may be directed to (925) 984-3253.