Obituary of John N Karamas

John N Karamas, 71, of Peabody, died peacefully on Wednesday May 13, 2020 after a brief illness. He was the beloved husband of Debra A. Karamas. Born in Peabody, he was the son of the late Spiros “Ace” and Anastasia (George) Karamas. He was a lifelong resident of Peabody and a graduate of Peabody High School, class of 1966. He later enlisted with the United States Army and served in Germany during the Vietnam War before his honorable discharge in January of 1972. John lived his dream by embarking on a life-long career in the construction business. He learned his trade as part of the family business before starting John Karamas Co. As an independent contractor, John worked tirelessly for the City of Peabody and many of its residents as a loyal public servant to the city he loved. John had a generous heart and true to his character, he was the same way with his friends and family and was selflessly dedicated to all who knew and loved him. He was one of a kind. On the rare occasions when he was not working, John enjoyed attending Patriots and Red Sox games with his children, and dancing to oldies music with his grandchildren. The only vacations John would take were trips to Las Vegas with Debra and family vacations to Disney World. John is survived by his daughter, Melissa and her husband Peter Cannistraci of Peabody, his sons Michael J. Karamas of CT, and Jeremy (Croteau) Karamas of Peabody, his brother, Louis Karamas of Peabody, his sister, Diane Karamas of TN, his niece, Tara (Karamas) Martich of Alaska, and his nephew, Christopher Karamas of Maine. He was the loving “Papou” to Cassidy and Cooper Cannistraci who were his world, and is also survived by several other nieces, nephews, cousins and his many dear friends and city workers as well. In honor of John, the next time you come across someone in need, please offer a helping hand, because that's what he would have done. A drive-up visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 20 from 10:00 AM until 12:00 noon at the Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, 82 Lynn St, Peabody. Family and friends are invited to attend. Everyone is asked to enter the parking lot via the entrance on Lynn Street and then a staff member will direct you accordingly. Burial services will be private.