John Paul Sarkisian was an American of Armenian descent who lived a modest but eventful life far removed from the glitz and glamour that would later surround his daughter, the legendary singer and actress Cher. Though he never sought fame, his name remains tied to one of the biggest icons in pop culture. Sarkisian’s story is one of hard work, complicated family ties, immigrant heritage, and personal redemption, a life that mirrors the unpredictability of destiny, or as we might call it, Brah Kram (the path of life).
Early Life and Family Background
John Paul Sarkisian was born on March 23, 1926, in Alameda County, California, USA, to Ghiragos (George) Sarkisian and Siranousch Blanche Dilkian. His family traced its origins to Armenia, a land known for its resilience and cultural pride. Growing up in an immigrant household during the Great Depression shaped his personality — practical, strong, and adaptive.
Although not much is publicly recorded about his schooling, it’s believed that John learned early on the value of perseverance. He embodied the working-class spirit, taking up multiple jobs to make a living, a reflection of millions of Americans striving for stability in mid-century America.
Career and Work Life
Unlike his daughter, who would go on to dominate music, television, and film, John Paul Sarkisian lived a far quieter professional life. According to multiple records, he worked as a truck driver, auto mechanic, bartender, and hairstylist throughout different phases of his life.
His wide range of jobs paints a picture of a man who constantly adapted to survive, the hallmark of a restless spirit searching for purpose. Some sources note that he showed great skill with his hands and enjoyed mechanical work, matching his straightforward and determined nature.
Though not famous, Sarkisian earned respect for his work ethic and resilience, traits that later shaped Cher’s strong, independent spirit.
Marriage to Georgia Holt and Family Life
In 1945, John Paul Sarkisian married Jackie Jean Crouch, who would later be known by her stage name Georgia Holt. Georgia herself had artistic aspirations and worked as a singer, model, and actress. Their marriage, however, was tumultuous.
They divorced soon after their wedding, reunited several years later, and separated again. Their relationship was defined by passion and conflict, a love story that couldn’t withstand the realities of their differing ambitions and lifestyles.
In 1946, Georgia gave birth to Cherilyn Sarkisian, who the world now knows simply as Cher. However, John and Georgia’s marriage dissolved soon after Cher’s birth. This early instability shaped Cher’s childhood and later became central to her reflections on family, resilience, and personal growth.
Cher once described her father as mysterious, charming, but distant, revealing the complexity of their relationship. Though often absent, Cher’s memories reveal a man who cared deeply in his quiet way, even if unspoken or unseen.
Relationship with Cher
The bond between John Paul Sarkisian and Cher was fragmented but deeply emotional. He missed most of her childhood, while Georgia Holt raised Cher and her half-sister Georganne LaPiere alone with limited financial help.
Years later, Cher acknowledged her father’s influence, describing how his Armenian background inspired her cultural curiosity and self-understanding. She shared that her Armenian, Irish, and Cherokee roots deeply shaped her identity, influencing her sense of belonging and self.
John Paul and Cher lacked a typical bond, yet his quiet presence deeply influenced her artistic vision, strength, and determination.
Later Years and Passing
As the years passed, John Paul lived mostly away from the spotlight. He settled in Fresno, California, where he worked until his health began to decline. He died on January 28, 1985, at the age of 58.
No one revealed the cause of his death, perfectly matching a man who valued privacy and lived most of his life quietly. Admirers occasionally visit Fresno Memorial Gardens to honor and remember the man behind one of America’s most famous entertainers.
Even in death, his story reflects the quiet strength of people who build greatness without ever stepping into its spotlight.
Understanding Brah Kram Through John Paul Sarkisian’s Life
The term Brah Kram, which means the divine order of fate or life’s destiny, clearly reflects Sarkisian’s entire journey.
The Path of Struggle: His constant shift between jobs shows a man walking the rugged path of survival, not luxury.
The Path of Legacy: Though he never became famous himself, he fathered one of the most legendary performers in modern history, proving that destiny works in mysterious ways.
Path of Imperfection: His flawed relationships and absences highlight that human lives are often complex and imperfect, yet still meaningful.
The Path of Redemption: In his later years, he reconnected with parts of his family, seeking quiet peace after years of turbulence.
His story shows that Brah Kram means walking your path, learning through hardship, growing through struggle, and leaving a lasting mark. See more: Dan Aykroyd Patron
Personality and Legacy
Those who knew John Paul Sarkisian described him as charming, disciplined, and deeply private. He wasn’t interested in fame, but he took pride in his Armenian identity and hard work.
Though far from fame, his resilience inspired Cher’s spirit and her courage to stand tall, stay authentic, and overcome adversity.
When fans admire Cher’s independence and strength, they unknowingly honor her father, the man who gave her roots to rise.
Final Thoughts
John Paul Sarkisian didn’t live a life of fame or riches, but he filled it with purpose and meaning. He symbolizes millions of unsung individuals whose personal stories form the foundation of greater legacies.
In a celebrity-obsessed world, John Paul Sarkisian reminds us that every legend grows from humanity, love, struggle, and imperfection. His resilient and dignified journey reflects Brah Kram, the mysterious, ever-unfolding path that guides and shapes every human life.