John was born March 15, 1928 and died May 14, 2016. His children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and community encircled him with love and care the last years of his life.
John graduated from Franklin High School and shortly after founded his successful business BENLA Water Heater Company with the Benvenuti brothers.
He was a founding and active member of Our Lady of Fatima Parish.
In his mid-life he sold his business, earned his BA degree and three religious degrees: two Master’s and a Doctorate. He was ordained a Deacon. Assisted at Fatima and then for nearly 20 years served as the Administrator of Our Lady of Guadalupe in West Seattle and Assumption in North Seattle until he retired. He served as a judge and member of the Archdiocesan Marriage Tribunal.
He was active in raising his family of ten children with his beloved Gloria – and, with her was on the Snoqualmie Ski patrol, enjoyed long motorcycle rides and traveling. “Glo” and he celebrated 59 years of marriage before her death nearly six years ago.
John is survived by his children: Monica, Theresa, Michael, Mary Kaye, Annie, Joanie, Mark, Paul, Tony and Cathy (their spouses), 20 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren. Son, John Joseph, Jr, died in infancy.
Dad, Grandpa, Pappy, Deacon John, Big John, John, aka Harry Karpowski - he will be remembered fondly by so many who knew him through his loving ministry and active life. He reached out to everyone he met with his sense of humor. He had a penchant for making new friends.
He resided at Mount St. Vincent’s with loving care for the last years of his life.
A memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, May 28, 11am, at Mount St. Vincent’s Chapel. There will be a private family service laying him to rest.
Guestbook at HarveyFuneral.com.