Joseph Edward Jarkesy

Joseph Edward Jarkesy, age 98, of Boca Raton, Florida, died peacefully in his home on Thursday, February 18, 2016. Joe, the son of George Robert Jarkesy and Weida Jarkesy, was born on July 14, 1917, in Patterson, New Jersey. He was a successful entrepreneur involved in multiple Florida enterprises. In his early days, he built and owned the Argosy Hotel on Miami Beach, the Shalimar Motel and Steak House and The Place for Steak in Miami, Florida. Joe also built and ran the Cocoa Beach Caravelle Motel and Lounge which was frequented by the first astronauts. Joseph then developed and operated Dry Marinas in Port Everglades for nearly forty years. Most enduring was his wit, passion and unending love for his family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Lonny Franzstack Jarkesy, his children, Arlene and Thomas (Catherine) of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida , Marilyn of Miami, Florida, George (Patricia) of Cypress, Texas, Jill of Sisters, Oregon and Karen (Michael)of Eagle, Idaho, his sister, Josephine Santarcangelo. Joseph also leaves behind 12 grandchidren and 15 great grandchildren.

Friends and family will be received at the Babione Funeral Home in Boca Raton, Florida, on Thursday, February 25, 2016, from 7:00 to 9:00 pm.

A Mass will be celebrated at St. Jude Melkite Catholic Church in Miami, Florida at 12:00 noon on Friday, February 26, 2016, followed by interment at Woodlawn Cemetery.