February 3, 1974 – November 9, 2025
Alan “Al” Jandro Karalius, 51, of Garner, Iowa, tragically passed away on November 9, 2025.
A gathering of friends and family will take place on Saturday, December 13th from 3:00–5:00 P.M at Schott Funeral Home, 505 N Clark St., Forest City, followed by a Celebration of Life for Al from 6:30–11:45 P.M. at the Super Bowl, 19050 Hwy 9, Forest City, Iowa.
Al was born on February 3, 1974 in Fort Dodge, Iowa, Al pursued his passion for the culinary arts by graduating from Le Cordon Bleu in 2009. He served as executive chef at The Lodge in Forest City, where his creativity and dedication left a lasting impression. Though he later stepped away from the professional kitchen, his love for food endured as he continued to explore flavors and share meals with those around him.
Al had an extraordinary ability to make friends wherever he went. He loved to rile up his loved ones, especially his mom Christine. With a mischievous grin and a quick wit—often wielding what he lovingly called his “shit spoon”—he could stir up laughter even in the most serious moments. Yet beneath that playful spirit was a heart of gold. He would give you the shirt off his back without hesitation and never hesitated to lend a hand—even when it meant stretching himself thin. Above all else, Al took immense pride in being “Papa” to what he affectionately called “the three cutest itty bitties.”
Al was also deeply immersed in music. As lead vocalist for the bands Woodkok Johnson and Sorry for Last Night, he brought energy and spirit to every performance. A devoted fan of the Dave Matthews Band, he traveled across the Midwest attending concerts and building friendships alongside his wife Alyssa.
He found joy in summertime outdoor adventures—riding his Harley, kayaking rivers, fishing, or golfing, fun times made even greater memories when his children joined him.
Al is lovingly remembered by his wife Alyssa; children, Nick (Brittany) Karalius, Autumn (Shane Taylor) Karalius, Joshua Rakoto, and Bella Karalius; granddaughters, Lilyanna, Mya, and Arya; mother, Christine; brother, Christopher (Jill) Karalius; sister, Sara Magnuson; nephews, Cavan, Gabe, Ayden, Myles, Zander, and Xaiver; niece, Reese and many dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Tim Strait; grandfather, Al Girkin; grandparents, Ubbe and Charlotte Jutting; friends, Randy Larson and Mark Bertram.
May Al’s memory continues to bring joy to all who knew him!
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