B. John Karlis

Columbiana - B. John Karlis, 94, of Columbiana, died Wednesday, December 27, 2017 at Essex of Salem I.

He was born July 15, 1923 in Salem, son of the late John and Mary Redmond Karlis.

John was a graduate of Ohio University and served in the army during World War II and was a Purple Heart recipient. He worked locally at Columbiana Exempted Village schools as superintendent until retirement, following his retirement John taught at the Columbiana County Career and Technical Center. John was very involved in his community he was a member of the Columbiana Rotary and served on the Columbiana School Board, the Columbiana Zoning Commission, the Columbiana Library Board as well as the State Library Board. John also enjoyed woodworking in his spare time.

The family would like to thank the staff of All Caring Hospice and John's caregivers, Kim, Beth, Tiffany, Breanna, Annette, Beth and Marcie for their excellent care, compassion and commitment.

His wife, the former, Maxine Kodrich, whom he married November 16, 1946, died January 3, 2015.

John is survived by two daughters, Cynthia (James) Caldwell of Columbiana and Marianne Karlis of New Orleans; a son, Richard (Amanda) Karlis of Salem; two sisters, Valerie Medvec of Simi Valley, CA and Marvine (Michael) Lipak of Independence; eight grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren and one great great grandchild.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Vivian Covert; three brothers, Richard, Jack, and George Karlis; and a grandchild, Israel Karlis.

Following his wishes, no services will be observed.

Professional arrangements were handled by the Warrick-Kummer-Rettig Funeral Home, Columbiana.

The Library is closing soon, I've watched the lights dim. Doors closing slowly, Moments slip-slipping by; Soft exhale, distant rumble, Raspy rattle. Roundtable discussions ended, A distant memory. Fodder for future days. My card, nearly expired; No renewals. When the doors close tight; I shall take my treasured books. Memories, return home, Remembering, My Library. Thankful for treasure. Freely offered, received. Richard A. Karlis

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