IN MEMORIAM - CARL KARCHER (1917-2008)
Long-Time Friend Of The OCGOP Passes Away At Age 90

ORANGE COUNTY -- Carl Karcher, founder of Carl's Jr. Hamburger and long-time friend of the Republican Party of Orange County has passed away at age 90.

Karcher, who had suffered from Parkinson's disease and has had several strokes in recent years died on Friday, January 11, 2008 at St. Jude Medical Center in Fullerton, California.

Carl Karcher was best known for his more than 3,000 Carl's Jr. and Hardees restaurants throughout the Nation (among 12 other countries). He was a king in the fast-food craze of the 1950's and 1960's. In later years, he revolutionized the delivery of fast-food with self-service beverage stations and salad bars, which are common to even traditional restaurants.

"Carl Karcher was a gentle giant with a handshake that was as big as his heart," said Scott Baugh, Chairman of the Republican Party of Orange County. "He was a kind and generous man who was committed to his community, approachable to the average person and a delight to be with. Our prayers go out to Carl's entire family."

Karcher was a founding member of the Republican Party of Orange County's Silver Circle. This fund-raising arm of the county party had such Orange County notables as Walter Knott and President Richard Nixon among members.

As news spread about the passing of the Orange County giant, local elected officials have offered similar reactions to that of Assemblyman Jim Silva of Huntington Beach, "Carl will always be remembered for his humble beginnings, generosity and strong rooted faith. He was always there to lend an empowering hand."

Carl Nicholas Karcher was born on Jan. 16, 1917, near Upper Sandusky, Ohio. He was the third of eight children. Karcher is survived by 12 children, 51 grandchildren and 39 great-grandchildren. His beloved wife of 66 years, Margaret Karcher died in 2006.

Memorial and funeral services at the time of this release are pending.