Julian Josephson Obituary
Julian Josephson was born in Brakpan, Transvaal, South Africa, in October 1947, to Helen and Harry Josephson. He was the beloved brother of Mal Smiedt and Vivienne Friedman.
Tragedy struck early in Julian’s life when his father passed away just two weeks before his Bar Mitzvah. At a young age, Julian assumed a deep sense of responsibility for his mother and two sisters, a responsibility he carried with strength, devotion, and unwavering commitment throughout his life.
From an early age, Julian displayed exceptional leadership qualities and a profound passion for the military. He excelled in the South African Army, serving with distinction and rising to the rank of Major in the reserves. He served in South West Africa during the conflict with Angola, an experience that helped shape his discipline, resilience, and character.
Following the 1967 Six-Day War, Julian felt a strong calling to support Israel. He volunteered to serve in the Israeli Army, where he proudly served for one year. His military experiences remained among his proudest achievements and greatly influenced both his business success and personal life.
In 1973, Julian married his young bride, Jenny. Together they built a beautiful life centered on family, community, and shared values. In 1978, Julian and Jenny immigrated to San Diego, California, along with Julian’s family, in search of greater opportunities and a brighter future.
Shortly after arriving in San Diego, Julian entered the Burger King franchise business with his brother-in-law, Stanley Smiedt. Together, they built and expanded the business successfully over 45 years, earning widespread respect for their leadership, integrity, and business acumen. Julian also served for several years as Chairman of the Burger King Franchise Association.
Julian was equally committed to serving the Jewish community. He believed deeply in strengthening Jewish life and supporting Israel. He served as President of the San Diego Jewish Academy and later as National President of Friends of the Israel Defense Forces. His generosity, philanthropy, and steadfast support touched countless organizations and causes.
Following retirement, Julian devoted himself to one of his greatest passions: reading and lifelong learning. He set a personal goal to read as extensively as possible on subjects that fascinated him, particularly military history. He had a deep interest in the First and Second World Wars, Winston Churchill, Israel’s wars, the American Civil War, the Vietnam War, and countless other defining historical events. Julian read exclusively nonfiction and possessed an extraordinary ability to retain and recall the vast knowledge he absorbed.
Julian carried himself with remarkable confidence, self-assurance, and strength. He was charismatic, intelligent, and charming, with a commanding presence and a wonderful sense of humor that drew people to him.
Throughout his adult life, Julian faced significant health challenges with extraordinary courage and resilience. In 1988, he survived viral myocarditis, an exceptionally rare and life-threatening condition at the time. His case was so unusual that it was documented in medical journals.
In 2001, Julian was diagnosed with prostate cancer. After achieving remission for six years, the cancer returned. Over many years, he fought bravely and with incredible determination, enduring multiple radiation treatments, oral chemotherapy, and hormone therapy. He faced every challenge with dignity and courage, never complaining and never losing his fighting spirit. Eventually, the disease progressed beyond what even his extraordinary strength could overcome.
Julian was a soldier in every sense of the word—disciplined, courageous, resilient, and deeply devoted to those he loved. His children and grandchildren were the light of his life.
He is deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of strength, leadership, generosity, and unwavering commitment to family, community, and Israel will continue to inspire all whose lives he touched.
May Julian Josephson’s memory forever be a blessing.
