Fresno State Athletics
Josephine Leaves Lasting Legacy
2/17/2012 12:00:00 AM | Men's Golf
Feb. 17, 2012
Margaret Josephine (Nov. 24, 1922-Feb. 10, 2012)
FRESNO, Calif. --- Margaret "Margo" Josephine, a Pinnacle Society member and one of Fresno State Athletics' major benefactors throughout her life, passed away on Feb. 10, 2012. She was 89.
The Josephine family has made significant philanthropic support to Fresno State Athletics throughout the years.
Margo, in memory of her late husband Joe, is responsible for establishing a $250,000 men's golf endowed scholarship that considers academic, leadership and civic achievements, along with financial need, and the naming rights for the large meeting room at the Duncan building.
"Margo Josephine and her husband made a huge impact on Fresno State Athletics that will be remembered forever," Bulldogs Hall of Fame head men's golf coach Mike Watney said. "Whenever the athletes, coaches, and administrators have a big meeting, they are told to meet in the 'Josephine Theater.' In addition to their major contribution for the theater, they also endowed a golf scholarship. I and future golfers at Fresno State will always remember and be grateful for their generosity."
She was always active in her husband's business, Josephine Furniture Store, having a keen eye and excellent taste in home décor. They spent a wonderful life together traveling the world with close friends and family.
With her husband, she enjoyed playing golf and tennis for many years at the San Joaquin Country Club. During this time, she was an active member of Ani Guild.
Josephine will be remembered as a gracious and generous hostess, always entertaining with style and delicious feasts. Her kind heart often led her to help many people who were in need. In addition to love of the Bulldogs, she was a generous supporter of Saint Agnes Hospital, the Fresno Philharmonic and the Fresno Grand Opera.
Josephine was born in Fresno, California on November 24, 1922 and graduated from Roosevelt High School.
Josephine is survived by her sister, Dorothy Arakelian: niece, Joy Arakelian; nephew, Eddie Arakelian, Jr. and his wife, Lynn Arakelian, and their children, Taylor and Austin Arakelian
