John Joseph Makool

John 14:1-3

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am."

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, brother and friend, John Joseph Makool, on November 20th, 2024, at his home in Marietta, GA. Born in Jernaya, Lebanon, in 1947, John lived a life filled with love, resilience, and generosity that touched everyone around him.

John was the devoted husband to Enaam “Ann” Makool for 57 years, and together they built a life of unwavering commitment and love. He was a proud father to three children, Joseph “Joe” Makool, Elie “Lee” Makool, Joannie Vatistas and her husband, John. He was also a cherished grandfather, affectionately known as “Jiddo,” to his adoring grandchildren, Ian, Molli, Zack, Sophia, and Alaina, and his great-grandchildren, Liam, Allen, Xander, and Dana. His family was his greatest treasure, and he found immense joy in spoiling his children and grandchildren with love, gifts, and sweets.

John's early life was rooted in the village of Jernaya, Lebanon, where he shared unforgettable moments with his parents Watfa and Yousef Makhoul and his siblings, Mike, Mouneer, and Sami. He was preceded in death by his mother, father and brother Mike, and we are all comforted in knowing that they have reunited in heaven.

A highly skilled engineer, John’s career as a photogrammetrist and cartographer spanned decades and continents. His work transformed aerial photographs into precise maps, earning him recognition as a leader in his field. His expertise was sought after globally, taking him to countries around the world such as Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, multiple countries in Africa, and all throughout the United States. Even after health challenges arose, his dedication to his craft remained steadfast, with his home becoming a hub for his work and passions. In his later years, John embraced his entrepreneurial spirit, becoming a successful eBay seller and took immense pride in his online store, filled with treasures that showcased his resourcefulness and keen eye.

John was a deeply loving and generous man, giving freely to those in need and always found ways to show his love, whether through grand gestures or small, meaningful gifts. He built lifelong friendships with many whom he considered family, but he shared a particularly close bond with his best friend, Dr. Mike Rabie, whom he dearly loved and cherished like a brother. Above all, John loved spending time with his family bringing joy and laughter to every occasion and creating special moments and everlasting bonds with his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews, extended family and friends.

A service to celebrate John’s life will be held at 2:00 PM, Monday, November 25th, 2024, at Georgia Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemetery, 2000 Cobb Parkway S, Marietta, Georgia, 30060. John's family will receive friends and family who are welcome to attend and honor his legacy; 1 hour before the funeral service. Following John's funeral service, the committal, will be on the grounds of Georgia Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages you to honor John’s legacy with a moment of generosity or laughter in his memory. Donations can also be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, an organization that reflects John’s generous and giving spirit.

John’s resilience, humor, and boundless love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him and his memory will be cherished forever.

Timothy 4:7-8

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing."