John S Karliak

JOHN S. KARLIAK, age 85. Passed away Saturday, February 24, 2024. Beloved husband of 63 years to Rita M. (nee Sopko); loving father of Dan (Chrissy), John, Bill (Sue) and Amy Karliak; dear grandfather of Helen, Danny, Claire, Colette, Robby, Joshua, Cole, Allison, Ana, and Johnny; brother of the late Vince, Rose, Mary, Lucy, and Josie; uncle and friend of many.

John served his country as a member of the Coast Guard after his high school graduation. He began his career as a firefighter in Lakewood in 1965 after a brief time as an East Cleveland police officer. He retired as Assistant Fire Chief for the Lakewood Fire Department in 1990.

John was a proud alumnus of St. Edward High School, class of 1956. For the past several years he was an active and proud member of their Stage Crew helping to teach the students how to create and build sets for the amazing theater performances. While building sets he also built close friendships with the other adults that worked on the productions and was respected by the young people he taught.

Throughout his life John loved boating and fishing. He enjoyed sharing time on his boat with family and friends. His grandchildren cherish their memories of Lake Erie outings with their Papa.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, March 2, 10:30am at St. Mark Church, 15800 Montrose Ave. A private burial will take place at a later date at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, OH. Please join the family to celebrate John’s life Friday, March 1, from 4-8pm in the Corrigan Craciun Funeral Home, 20820 Lorain Rd.

The Karliak family would like to extend their thanks to the dedicated staff of Ennis Court. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the St. Edward Marching Band, ℅ St. Edward High School, 13500 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, OH 44107.