Creating a Lasting Impact: The Amazing Life of Joy Esther Karp

by R.W. Karp

This is Joy’s story—the story of her struggles and her incredible contributions, along with a bit about Rick Karp, her husband and biographer, who promised her during the last few days of her life that he’d tell her story. A remarkable person, Joy was a woman who was up against all odds throughout her entire existence. She fought back with grace, determination, and strength, even in the most dire circumstances. Despite the challenges she faced, she continued to thrive, lead a successful career, and have a positive impact on millions of people even today, years after her passing.

This incredible story shows how determined Joy was to make a difference. In 1978 Joy created the “McDonald’s Hands on Business Training Program” which became the world-wide training program for McDonald’s Restaurants and has had a positive impact on many, many people throughout the years. She was Inspirational in confronting the physical and medical challenges she faced, and Joy has left a lasting mark through her compassion and support for others. Her story is a firm reminder to never give up, no matter what the odds.

357 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 5, 2024

About the author

Rick Karp was born and raised in Ottawa, and married his high school sweetheart. He went to Carleton University for his undergraduate work before moving to Kingston Ontario to go to Queen’s University for a Degree in Education. After graduating Rick taught High School in Picton Ontario for close to fourteen years. During his teaching career he returned to Queen’s to study for a Master’s Degree in Education.

Rick loved his teaching, but starting in1974, until she passed away in September 2017, Rick’s wife, Joy, suffered from life threatening issues every decade. Being a caregiver for Joy affected Rick’s life, caused him to leave teaching, and controlled his career opportunities. You can learn more about this in the Q&A section.

Rick and Joy came to Whitehorse in 1985 to open the first McDonald’s Restaurant in the north of Canada. At that time, it was the most remote McDonald’s in the Country. They owned and operated the franchise, winning all sorts of awards from McDonald’s, and the community; but due to Joy’s ongoing issues they had to sell the restaurant back to the company in 2000. In 2002, Rick designed and built a hair salon and retail shop in Whitehorse, which he and Joy operated, until Joy’s cancer returned in 2016.

Rick became the President of the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce in 2004 and remained in that position until July 2018, when he retired. During his stay at the Chamber Rick created many programs to support businesses, and worked closely with several Yukon Government departments. In 2017 Rick helped to create the Yukon Science & Technology Advisory Society, which is composed of more than 20 PhD’s, and several researchers. He is currently the President of YSTAS; as well, Rick is the President of the Jewish Cultural Society of Yukon and he continues to be an active volunteer in the community.

Rick has written three books, one which was made into a movie by CBS TV. Since the passing of his wife he is now determined to publish the books and continue writing.

Rick has two grown children, and two grandchildren, who live in Vancouver B.C.

For more information, visit his website: www.rwkarp.ca.