Donald Karlin Sr., age 90, passed from this world on September 16, 2023. He was born February 16, 1933 in Chicago to Irving, and Frances Karlin. He is preceded in death by his wife of 53 years Sylvia, and his brother Harvey.
Don was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his sons Don Karlin Jr. (wife Kathy) and Randy Karlin (wife Debbra), his sister-in-law, Gloria Karlin, as well as his four grandchildren, Tiffany Maturani (husband Tony), Courtney Kirian (husband David), Whitney Moore (husband David), and Donnie Karlin (wife Danielle), and step grandchildren Beth Boughton (husband Buck) , Scott Weeks (wife Luana), and Maggie Jack (husband Jimmy). He leaves behind twelve great grandchildren, David, Tess, Sam, Isla, Finnley, Jude, Amelia, Hudson, Kari, Lani, Lettie, and Oliver.
Don had an immense sense of humor, and leaves a legacy of exuberance, laughter, and a huge smile. Even at a young age, Don made all those he knew laugh, and they enjoyed being in his presence.
In his youth, and in keeping with his outgoing personality, he proved to be a "rascal." Stories of his exploits included, telling all his classmates at Hebrew School that class was cancelled, and then was the only one to attend. Also, Don and his buddy Joey Contino decided to "run away" from Chicago to California … Joey's dad picked them up in Oklahoma!
Don attended Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa where he met the love of his life, Sylvia, and made her his wife. They met while participating in a parade. Don was dressed as a Greek God on a float, and Sylvia was on the next float. They fell in love instantly.
Don was an exemplary father, and every Sunday was "Family Day" where he took the family on many Southern California adventures.
Don joined the Army in 1952; and served at Fort Gordon, Georgia.
Don had an extensive, and successful career in the flooring industry. His career included well-known brands such as Masland, Galaxy, Gemini, and Johnson Hardwood. Don's stellar selling talents were well recognized by industry executives, and he was promoted to the title of VP of Sales at several companies.
Don and Sylvia lived across the country during their marriage; from Iowa, to Illinois, and finally to California. After Sylvia's passing in 2005, Don lived in Tennessee, South Carolina and Georgia.
A giant hole in the universe of happiness and excitement is left behind without Don. He will be missed by all who knew him but will see him again!
Funeral Services will be held on October 11, 2023, at 11:30 AM at:
Riverside National Cemetery
22495 Van Buren Blvd.
Riverside, CA 92518
Donations may be made in Donald Karlin Sr.'s memory to:
The Alzheimer's Association
"Where are we now Dad?"
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