John Paul Sarkisian, born on March 23, 1926, in Oakland, California, was an Armenian-American known primarily as the father of the iconic singer and actress Cher. His life, though less publicized, offers a compelling narrative of the immigrant experience in America, marked by personal challenges and complex family dynamics.
Early Life
Sarkisian was born to Armenian immigrant parents, Ghiragos “George” Sarkisian and Siranousch “Blanche” Dilkian. Growing up in California during the early 20th century, he was part of a family that included two sisters, Louise and Elizabeth. The family faced the typical challenges of immigrants striving to establish themselves in a new country, instilling in Sarkisian a strong sense of cultural heritage and resilience.
Career
Throughout his life, Sarkisian undertook various occupations. He worked as a truck driver, bartender, auto mechanic, and hairstylist, among other roles. These jobs reflect his adaptability and determination to provide for his family, despite the economic challenges of the time. His diverse skill set underscores a commitment to hard work, a trait that undoubtedly influenced his daughter’s work ethic.
Relationships
In 1945, Sarkisian married Georgia Holt, born Jackie Jean Crouch, an aspiring singer and actress. Their union was brief, resulting in the birth of their daughter, Cherilyn Sarkisian, known globally as Cher, on May 20, 1946. The couple divorced in 1947. They remarried in 1965 but separated again in 1966. Their tumultuous relationship had a profound impact on Cher’s upbringing, with Sarkisian’s absences and personal struggles contributing to a complex father-daughter dynamic.
Relationship with Cher
Sarkisian’s relationship with Cher was strained. His battles with substance abuse and gambling led to periods of absence during her childhood. Cher first met her father when she was 11 years old, and their interactions were sporadic. In the late 1980s, Sarkisian sued Cher for defamation, seeking $4 million over statements she made describing him as a “compulsive gambler and heroin addict.” This legal action further strained their relationship, leading to an eventual disconnection.
Later Life and Death
Sarkisian’s later years were marked by continued personal challenges. He passed away on January 28, 1985, in Fresno, California, at the age of 58. He was laid to rest at Fresno Memorial Gardens. Despite their estranged relationship, his death closed a chapter in Cher’s life, leaving unresolved complexities.
Net Worth and Real Estate
Specific details about Sarkisian’s net worth and real estate holdings are not publicly documented. Given his various occupations, it is likely that he maintained a modest lifestyle, focusing on providing for his family through his diverse employment endeavors.
Legacy
While Sarkisian did not achieve fame, his life story contributes to understanding the familial and cultural influences that shaped Cher. His Armenian heritage and personal struggles offer context to the resilience and depth evident in Cher’s career. Sarkisian’s narrative reflects the broader immigrant experience in America, marked by perseverance amidst adversity.
In summary, John Paul Sarkisian’s life was a tapestry of varied experiences, from his Armenian roots to his multifaceted career and complex family relationships. His story, though intertwined with the fame of his daughter, stands as a testament to the challenges and triumphs of the immigrant journey in the United States.
