December 22, 1927 - February 26, 2020
Athanasios “Tom” Karelis
His journey began on December 22, 1927, in Greece. Athanasios “Tom” was a beloved husband, father, grandfather,great-grand father, relative and friend. Tom met the love of his life, Joanna. They were married in 1963 and then moved to California. Tom was an active member of St. Basil’s Greek Orthodox Church and a Master Gardener with UC Davis in which he volunteered extensively. God and family were his priorities, and his love for his family was strongly evident, mostly enjoyed spending time together camping, fishing, traveling, entertaining. He was passionate about music and gardening. His nickname was “Tom the Greek,” as he enjoyed sharing his culture, Greek philosophy, and Greek food/homemade wine with others. Tom also had a passion for gardening as his backyard was often called the Garden of Eden. He shared fruits and vegetables plus gardening wisdom of every kind to all who crossed his path. Tom spent most of his early adulthood playing the clarinet professionally throughout Greece and carried on the passion for music throughout his life. His smile, laughter, kind heart was always infectious. Tom will always be remembered by his great sense of humor, stories and helpful hand to others. He was a strong patriarch of his family and a great friend to all. His grandchildren brought great happiness and joy. Tom imparred honestly, loyalty and the highest of morals and ethics. He will be missed by many. He is survived by his wife, Joanna; his daughter and son-in-law, Anastasia and Todd Scheideman; daughter, Anna Karelis; grandchildren, Victoria Goehring, Chateria Anbiah (husband Shawn Anbiah), Christopher Goehring (wife Angelica Goehring), Leo Scheideman, Aaron Scheideman, Abrielle Goehring and Lucy Scheideman; great-grandson, Leland Goehring; all of who he dearly loved and they him. His new journey began on February 26, 2020. May his memory be eternal.
Family and friends are invited to attend his Celebration of Life at:
Trisagion:
Friday, March 6, 2020, 5:00pm at Vineyard Chapel in Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 Beckman Road, Lodi, CA
Funeral
Saturday, March 7, 2020, 1:00pm Vineyard Chapel in Cherokee Memorial Park, located at 14165 Beckman Road, Lodi, CA
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to either:
St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church, 920 W. March Lane Stockton, Ca 95207 or San Joquin County Sheriff’s Foundation, 7000 Michael Canlis Boulevard French Camp, CA 95231