John Stephen Karinshak

After a long illness, John passed away peacefully in his home on February 2, 2022, surrounded by his wife, Judy, and son, George. John was born May 4, 1944, in Uniontown, PA and was the fifth of eight children of the late John and Mary (Balas) Karinshak. John is survived by his wife of 52 years, Judy (Schooley), his son Christopher “George,” and his wife and stepson Lisa and Max Troiano, his siblings Emilie Van Sanford, Judith A. Karinshak, Kenneth Karinshak, Larry Karinshak, Michael Karinshak (Sandy), and many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his older brothers James and Fred Karinshak. John grew up in Collier, Pennsylvania, moving to the Metropolitan area after graduation from Fairchance-Georges High School. He started his public service career with the FBI. In 1966, he joined the Arlington Police Department. John had a long and distinguished career as an Arlington County policeman and detective where he served for over 33 years, the last 16 years as Captain of the Narcotics Unit. As Captain of this Unit, he served on, and was responsible for, various Metropolitan Area Drug Enforcement Task Forces. John earned a Bachelor’s Degree from American University while working with the Police Department. John dedicated himself to his family and community. He coached George in soccer and baseball throughout his school career through the Arlington County Sports Division and volunteered in various youth-oriented community organizations within the Arlington County Community. His fondest memories are when he and George began coaching together following George’s return from college. While working for the police department, John saw thousands of our county youths potentially on the road to enter the criminal classification system. He recognized how important it is for children to witness strong leadership from county and civic youth activity leaders. He demonstrated this in his life through his volunteerism. In addition to his coaching with Arlington County Babe Ruth Baseball, John demonstrated his belief in volunteerism by also serving with the Arlington Host Lions, Eyeglass Recycling Center of Northern Virginia, Optimist Club of Arlington, and Better Sports Club of Arlington. In addition, he was a long-time Board of Directors member and supporter of the Arlington Sports Hall of Fame and the Inter-Service Club Council. John was a consummate volunteer who devoted immeasurable hours of service in support of all the organizations in which he participated. Religion was an important part of John's life. He was a devout Catholic and an active member of St. Ann Catholic Church where he served as an usher for many years and contributed many other benevolent hours to his church community. A viewing will be held on Thursday, February 10 from 3 to 7 p.m. at Murphy Funeral Home, 4510 Wilson Boulevard, Arlington, VA. A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, February 11 at 11 a.m. at St. Ann Catholic Church, 5312 10th Street N., Arlington, VA. A reception to celebrate John’s life will follow in St. Ann’s Parish Hall following the interment until 4:00 p.m. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.