Former Paddock circulation chief remembered for zeal, generosity
John Karambelas was no stranger to changes in the newspaper industry.
The longtime circulation executive at Paddock Publications was instrumental in Paddock's shift from a weekly publication to the Daily Herald, the third-largest daily newspaper in Illinois.
Even in retirement, he kept a keen eye on the ongoing changes in the newspaper industry, according to his family.
Karambelas died at his Oak Brook home Wednesday, 10 years after doctors diagnosed him with Leukemia. He was 89.
He joined Paddock as a consultant in 1968, helping establish the company's first newspaper carrier distribution system. The system manages routes for deliveries and paper production runs.
“My dad just loved everybody there,” said his son, Mark Karambelas. “It was the family atmosphere.”
After his tenure as a consultant, officials at Paddock eventually persuaded him to join the company full-time. He ultimately became vice president of circulation.
According to those who knew and worked alongside him, Karambelas kept a straight shooter mentality that his co-workers enjoyed. He also was a bit of a character.
“When John worked, he worked hard. When he played, he played hard, and everyday – good or bad – he would dance and remind others to dance in appreciation of life,” Daily Herald Vice President of Circulation Jim Galetano said. “He was the most positive man I ever met, and his positive outlook on matters was contagious.”
Karambelas was a native of Cicero and served in the U.S. Army during World War II, earning two Bronze Star medals. He earned a law degree from DePaul University and shouldered many of the responsibilities of helping his siblings after his parents died.
“He's the best person I've ever known,” his son said. “He truly was a good person in a world that's kind of crazy.”
His son recalled fishing trips to Canada and Wisconsin. But the most memorable trip was when he met his father in Las Vegas, a place his father loved to visit.
Co-workers remember Karambelas for his generosity.
“Once a year he'd charter a bus and take everyone in the circulation department to Greektown to celebrate,” said Stu Paddock III, assistant vice president and manager of technology and process for Paddock. “He was a great friend and adviser to my dad (former Daily Herald Publisher Stuart Paddock, Jr.).”
Even after he left Paddock, Karambelas held strong feelings about changes to the newspaper industry.
“He knew for argument's sake it's a business that's tougher today because of technology and realistically it has to change with that technology, that he understood,” said his son.
Karambelas is survived by his wife, Donna Karambelas, who also was employed by Paddock, his son, daughter-in-law, Laura, daughter, Andrea, and three grandchildren. A wake was held on Friday. Memorials may be sent to Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox Church, 2501 Wolf Road, Westchester, IL 60154.