The Korpis— Erika, John and Karen— have helped shape the spa world with heart and vision. Right: One of ISPA’ s earliest love stories, John and Karen shared a legacy of both passion and purpose.
Beach Gardens, Florida, John took his work seriously, setting an example for so many of us who followed.
It was in this industry he loved so deeply that he met and married the love of his life, Karen, creating one of ISPA’ s first love stories. John and Karen shared not only a profound personal bond but a shared dedication to advancing the spa profession. Together, they were honored with the ISPA Dedicated Contributor Award in 2010.
Karen, who wore the crown jewel of The Ritz-Carlton Spa with grace and elegance, was spa royalty— and John was her prince. Their storybook romance drew us all into a circle of passion, determination and optimism. Everything they envisioned in those early days came true— and indeed, they lived happily ever after. John leaves a lasting legacy, and he will not be forgotten.
JEFF KOHL, Past ISPA and ISPA Foundation Chair While at a board meeting in San Francisco in 2003, there were two topics that would shape the future of the ISPA Foundation on the table. During an afternoon break, I had the opportunity to spend time with John, walking in a labyrinth and discussing our two challenges.
First was how we would move forward with our education initiative. John had a passion to create a series of educational books in conjunction with Michigan State University. This was to begin with training in the financial operations of spas, allowing management to become further educated about running a spa business.
Second was whether to keep the Foundation alive or end its existence. After discussion, John was convinced to become the ISPA Foundation chairman and keep our efforts moving forward. While many members have been part of the Foundation’ s success, it could very well have ceased to exist on that day in San Francisco if John had not stepped forward to lead the way.
CATHY CLUFF, Past ISPA and ISPA Foundation Officer During an ISPA Board meeting, I remember sitting with John and he was telling me how important family was to him and how lucky I was to work with mine. He talked about the blessing of Karen, his children and his beloved dogs. He told me to enjoy every moment of being with my family.
He then gave me one of his engulfing John Korpi bear hugs. After all these years that memory has stuck with me and I can still feel that hug.
EDWIN NEILL, Past ISPA Foundation Officer John Korpi was a kind man as well as a visionary. We still use his work today that, among other things, standardized financial reporting for spas and salons.
He taught me much, and will always stay in my heart with love and respect.
LYNNE MCNEES, ISPA President John Korpi has left a lasting legacy within the spa industry and his nonstop creative energy will be greatly missed.
I always knew when my phone rang and I saw that it was John, there would be something new he wanted to discuss. He was always ahead of the next big thing and the next big idea that would help ISPA members run their business more efficiently.
He was my cheerleader but never stopped pushing me to think bigger. I am grateful for his mentorship and unwavering friendship. n
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