Joseph Karian

Rotterdam – Joseph Karian died peacefully in his sleep on January 16, 2023. He was born July 9, 1938 in the Bronx, NY, to Carl and Rose Khajagouni. His stepmother, Penny Khajagouni, played a loving part in his values and direction in life. Joe loved his country and patriotically served in the United States Army. He was stationed overseas in Germany. After his military service, Joe became a successful banker who specialized in commercial lending. He worked in the banking industry for over 30 years. Joe was married for 52 years to Lillian Palmieri. Shortly after their marriage, they moved from New York City to Schenectady, settling in Rotterdam. Together they raised four children who he often boasted as his greatest pride and achievement. He valued education and dedicated his life so that his children could be successful. Joe was an avid sports fan who enthusiastically rooted for his favorite teams. Joe was passionate about the NY Knicks and the NY Jets. Growing up in New York City, he loved the NY Yankees, and Mickey Mantle was his idol! He always looked forward to road trips to see his Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team. Joe shared his love of sports with his children and coached in the Rotterdam Little League. When he wasn’t watching sports, Joe could always be found on the golf course, at the gym, or at his favorite restaurant. Joe made exercise and nutrition part of his daily life. He loved the people associated with these activities and considered them to be his “family of friends.” Jo was a happy, fun-loving man who had the gift of gab. He enjoyed engaging in conversations on almost any topic. He had a quick wit always telling and enjoying a good joke or story. Joe will be missed by all who had the privilege to know and love him. Joe was the devoted and loving husband of Lillian Palmieri and proud father of Joseph, David, Andrea (Brian) Laiacona, and Michelle (Jamin) Rosenfeld. The loves of his life were his grandsons Steven and Daniel Laiacona; and Matthew and Benjamin Rosenfeld who brought true joy and fulfillment to his life. Friends and relatives are invited to pay their respects on Friday February 3rd from 10-11:30 am at DeMarco-Stone Funeral Home 1605 Helderberg Ave., Rotterdam. Burial, with military honors, will follow at Saratoga National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Joe’s name to the Voluntary Services at the Stratton VA Medical Center 113 Holland Ave., Albany, NY 12208. All donations are used to support local veterans.