John Dennis Karpook, age 79, of Baltimore, Maryland, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2026.

Born on August 9, 1946, in Baltimore, Maryland, John was the beloved son of the late Doris and John Karpook. He dedicated his life to serving others, both professionally and personally.

John proudly served his country in the United States Navy's Naval Air Division from 1966 to 1970. Following his military service, he earned his Master's Degree in Social Work and devoted his career to helping children and families. He worked as a social worker at Villa Maria from 1980 to 1985 and then spent 32 years at Sheppard Pratt, where his compassion, empathy, and commitment positively impacted countless lives.

John was known for his kind heart, gentle spirit, sense of humor, and remarkable ability to connect with people, especially children. He found great joy in spending time with his family, dancing, and listening to the music of the 1960s and 1970s. An avid animal lover, he cherished both domestic and wild animals, especially the many wild visitors who regularly returned to his yard and the beloved granddogs he adored. His faith was an important part of his life, and he was an active member of St. Pius Church for many years before becoming a member of St. Joseph Church in Cockeysville.

John is survived by his devoted wife, Patricia Lynn Karpook (née Campbell); his loving daughters, Alicia Redifer (Jonathan Moore), Stacey Quattlebaum, and Jennifer McDonald (James McDonald) ; his sister, Cindy Karpook; and his cherished grandchildren, Robbie Redifer, Anna Quattlebaum, Campbell Quattlebaum, Elliot Quattlebaum, Molly McDonald, and Finn McDonald. He is also survived by many loving cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Jeff Redifer and grandson John Reid Quattlebaum.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass celebrating John’s life at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 101 Church Lane, Cockeysville, Maryland 21030 on Friday, June 19, 2026 beginning at 11:30 a.m. A gathering in remembrance of John will follow at Peaceful Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Center, P.A., 2325 York Road, Timonium, Maryland, 21093 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Interment will be private. United States Navy Military Funeral Honors will present the flag to Mrs. Karpook at 3:30 p.m. during the gathering at the funeral home. 

John’s legacy of kindness, compassion, laughter, and service to others will continue to live on through all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

At every goodbye, John would wish his children and grandchildren, “Wisdom, compassion to and from others, and peace within your heart.”