Our beloved grandfather John S. Kara Jr. (Papa Johnny Kara) passed away peacefully in his home on June 16th, 2023 at the age of 92. He is survived by his loving sister Dolly, many nieces and nephews, grandchildren, great grandchildren and his great-great grandchild Mattias who he loved so dearly.

He was born in Chicago, Illinois on October 14th, 1930. His childhood in Illinois instilled a lifelong passion for family, and business.  Johnny went to St. Johns Military Academy in Delafield, Wisconsin. Once he moved back home, he learned business life working in his father and mother's tavern in Illinois. As an older young adult, he moved to Arkansas where he decided to own a business himself, The Odessa Café where he meets his wife. Johnny and Betty bonded over their mutual appreciation for business, life and happiness.  They continued to share this throughout their long and happy marriage and 2 loving children.

In 1960 he decided to open Kara's. He became the local legend for his awesome polish sausage, giving a little cash for something you wanted to pawn or maybe you just wanted a good game of pool! His wife became ill so with the help of his daughter and son they made a specialty grocery store that feels a bit like home, known as Kara's Packing Company which is still open today!

He was preceded in death by his wife Betty J. Kara, daughter Winona (Kitty) Kara, son John (Jobe) Kara and sister Bernice V. Kara.

Visitation will be held at Ashby Funeral Home @ 108 W Narroway St, Benton, AR 72015, Friday June 23rd 6 to 8 p.m.

Celebration of life will be held at Ashby Funeral Home, Saturday June 24th at 2pm followed by a small service at Owensville Cemetery Pavilion with burial.  All friends and family are welcome.

"And I will give unto thee, and to thy seed after thee, the land wherein thou art a stranger, all the land of Ca'naan, for an everlasting possession; and I will be their God."  Genesis 17:8