Alexander Karim

KARIM, Alexander - September 1, 1915 - February 5, 2005 Passed away after complications from a stroke. Alex was born in Paris, raised in Tehran, and immigrated to the U.S. in 1947. He traveled the world the next 30 years, affording him an international philosophy and vision. A skeptical idealist with an unshakable belief in democracy, his unbounded curiosity and zest for life made him a devoted father, an engineer, scientist, builder, artist, adventurer, and an avid reader/ writer of political philosophy, short stories and essays. Through his 90 years, he climbed mountains in pursuit of inspiration and geologic insight. He delighted in skiing the Sierra, and beautified his Walnut Creek home. At 76 he received a masters in geology at the University of Nevada, Reno, and continued Ph.D. course work until age 84. He gave his energy, attention and good humor to life until the very end. We trust that in his heaven Alex knows his successes and failures, and is now reunited with the life force he pondered and revered. He lives on in his companion of over 50 years, Evelyne Karim; his eight children: Cima, Lily, Tallis, Avesta, Adlai, Zander, Felix, Persis; 13 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; sisters, Iran and Azar; brothers, Georges and Masude; and many family members and friends. He was Baba to many who knew him. We miss his vibrant and engaging presence. Donations in memory of Alex are made to: UNICEF Tsunami Relief at unicefusa.org or 1-800-4UNICEF. Inquiries about a memorial celebration Feb. 27, can be directed to 510-644-2054.