Herminé Afarian Menakian passed away recently, on Jan. 21, 2015.² She was born in Damascus, Syria, to Manuel and “Filor” Afarian, forced deportees from Gurun, Turkey, who established residence in Beirut, Lebanon. Oriort Herminé graduated from Nishan Palanjian Jemaran in Beirut, where she later taught the elementary grades. She was a contemporary of some of the great diasporan teachers, like Levon Shant, Nigol Aghbalian, Simon Vratsian, Mushegh Ishkhan, Garo Sassouni, and Karnig Guzelian, among others. And she was my teacher of arithmetic.

Nishan Palanjian Jemaran teachers Misses Vartiter, Marjolene, and Hemine

Oriort Herminé was raised among nationalistic Guruntsis who maintained their traditions and culture while living in Beirut. I saw Oriort Herminé, her sister, and her brothers at Guruntsi gatherings. Her mother was a close friend of my Guruntsi grandmother.

She was my teacher in the mid 1950’s. In 1958, she left Beirut to visit New York and, in 1959, she married Mihran Menakian, an American-born Armenian and a teacher in the New York City public schools, a gentle man. The couple visited Beirut and the village where we spent our summers.

Oriort Herminé was a humble, non-assuming individual, yet knowledgeable, confident, and wise. She had a strong sense of her mission early on when she taught Armenian dances to our class and prepared students for the stage. I distinctly remember the play she staged where a spoiled housewife (played by myself) relied on a robot to conduct housework! At the time, videotaping was not readily available and Oriort Herminé’s staging mainly remained in her students’ memories.

Oriort Herminé was friendly with her students, but we knew enough not to personalize our relationship. She knew how to draw firm boundaries. She was a demanding teacher, yet compassionate.

Oriort Herminé

I saw Oriort Herminé periodically in the early 1960’s, when she visited with my uncle’s family in New York. The Menakians lived in New York City where they raised their three children, humbly and with love. As her children grew up, Oriort Herminé devoted herself to community activities, engaged in teaching Armenian in one-day and all-day schools. Her leadership skills and teaching experience guided her while she served the Nareg Armenian School as its principal and Hovnanian School as director of the Armenian language department.

The unthinkable happened to the Menakian family: Their only son, Armen, suffered a fall and a head concussion. He was in a coma for a while. The Menakian couple visited him daily, and Oriort Herminé kept a positive attitude throughout the ordeal. Armen had to receive physical and speech therapy, and the Menakians followed his progress step by step, always hopeful. Armen miraculously survived the accident and recovered somewhat.

Like her son, Armen, Oriort Herminé was a survivor. She survived the loss of her husband in 1994 and courageously gave Armen a pleasant life, taking him on tours all over the world, thus satisfying his passion for travel. They traveled to Armenia and Karabagh, and took other family members, too. In 2007, we organized a gathering of Jemarantsis in her honor and held a memorable cultural evening in Yerevan.

She took care of her health into her old age in order to have the stamina for Armen, to not leave him alone. In a late telephone conversation, she pointed out with satisfaction that Armen was taking care of her, too, by carrying things up the stairs to save her the trip.

After my visits to Gurun and the publication of my father’s memoirs, Oriort Herminé sent me a copy of her father’s account of the 1915 forced deportations from Gurun. The handwritten copy was very difficult to read, yet contained very interesting information. She stated with pride that the reason her father’s family survived was due to his literary fluency in Turkish and Armenian, as well as his benevolence toward people, which was reciprocated when they reached a village with infected eyes (from the dust on the deportation route).

Oriort Herminé told me that she was reading her father’s memoirs to her daughter, Maral, who was translating it into English.

Oriort Herminé had empathy for the underdog, but also had the wisdom to maintain neutrality in a conflict. She was not an emotional individual, but rational and reality oriented. She had a strong sense of responsibility and carried hers with grace and unwavering will. She was a true Guruntsi, even though she was not born in Gurun; Guruntsis are known to be strong willed and goal oriented.

May she rest in peace and contentment for her service to the Armenian community.

I will miss her wisdom, her kindness, her friendship.

Notes

[1] The year of her actual birth was 1926. This is only the official birth year.

2 Her granddaughter, Christina, prepared her biography and delivered the eulogy on Jan. 23, 2015.

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George Basmajian passed away on March 6 in Los Angeles, Calif. Born in Aleppo in 1943, George leaves behind his loving wife, Shakeh Basmajian. He will be sorely missed by his family, which includes Mr. Roger Basmajian; Mr. and Mrs. Serouj and Mireille Basmajian and their children Patil, Decille, and Mila; Mr. and Mrs. Armen and Hourig Anderian and their children Diran and Arden; Dr. and Mrs. Hrayr and Ellis Basmajian and their children George and Soline; and Mr. and Mrs. Stepan and Shakeh Basmajian and their children.

George Basmajian

The Basmajian, Saryan, Menegichian, Takoushian, Haroutunian, Gidanian, Anderian, and Zartarian families grieve the loss of their husband, father, grandfather, brother, and relative.

George was an active member of the Armenian Heritage Cruise (AHC) Executive Committee for several years, and his devotion to the Armenian Nation was evident in his hard work.

He was also a long-time supporter of the Hairenik publications.

George Basmajian’s funeral services took place at the St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church in Detroit. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to the ARS Eastern USA Educational Fund.

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The Armenian Weekly and Hairenik Weekly editors and staff wish to extend their sincere and heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Shakeh Basmajian for the loss of her husband George Basmajian, a longtime supporter of the Hairenik publications.

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The Armenian Heritage Cruise extends its sympathy to the family and friends of George Basmajian, a dedicated Armenian, who recently retired from the AHC Board. He was an active member of the Armenian Heritage Cruise Executive Committee for many years. His work on behalf of the AHC was instrumental in its success. His devotion to the Armenian Nation was evident in all his activities while working on the AHC Committee.

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The Armenian Relief Society, Inc. (ARS) Central Executive Board (CEB) and office staff extend their deeply felt sympathy and condolences to former CEB member, Ungerouhi Shakeh Basmajian, her children, and the immediate family, for the loss of Mr. George Basmajian, a beloved husband, father, and friend, who sadly  passed away on Fri., March 6.

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The Armenian Relief Society of Eastern USA, its 32 chapters, and its Board of Directors express their deepest condolences to Ungerouhi Shakeh Basmajian, and the Basmajian families on the passing of their beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Mr. George Basmajian. He will be sadly missed. May he rest in peace.

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HAVERHILL, Mass.—For more than 50 years, Zarouhi (Sara) Vosgarichian was all heart and soul when it came to the Armenian Relief Society (ARS), both inside her own community and with events that demanded international attention.

Sara Vosgarichian

Whether it was coming to the assistance of a local family in need or world strife in Lebanon, she was always there to answer the call of humanity.

Her chapter was not the biggest by any means, but stood in the forefront of devoted service to humanity like all others. Like herself, Haverhill was a little chapter with a big heart.

Members celebrated their festivities, commemorated their historical events, and conducted fund-raisers to subsidize their charities.

Her husband Hemayag was a 50-year Gomideh member and genocide survivor. Their family didn’t include biological children of their own. The Armenian community was their family.

Saturday night suppers at the River Street club gave her every opportunity to spread her wares. While the men indulged in their game of cards and tavlou, Sara and her ARS sisters prepared dinner. Whether it was kheyma or chicken with pilaf, it would be enough to fill a tapeworm and there was always room for dessert.

“The ARS has given me a reason to practice my heritage,” she used to say. “Our chapter in Haverhill stands with others throughout the world in serving our people.”

Sara passed March 16 at Penacook Place Nursing Home, where she spent the final weeks of her life. She was 90 and left behind a legacy for goodness and compassion.

Her funeral service took place March 20 at Armenian Church at Hye Pointe where family and friends gathered to pay tribute. Burial took place in Linwood Cemetery by her husband.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Armenian Relief Society, 80 Bigelow Ave., Watertown, MA 02472.

Sara, as she was affectionately known, immigrated from Cuba and the Castro regime to work in the shoe mills of this city. It was a haven for any refugee, including Armenians, who toiled their fingers to the bone, thankful for the opportunity to live in peace and worship in security.

They spoke their language, practiced their culture, and kept their ethnicity gallantly in the forefront. It was a world that knew no compromise.

Sara attended evening classes at Haverhill High School in an effort to better herself and particularly enjoyed hosting dinners for her family, including her many nieces and nephews. People in her neighborhood would drop by and receive the same hospitality.

She kept updated with all the latest Armenian news through the Hairenik and Armenian Weekly. Among her best moments was taking the train into Boston and attending an Armenian concert (hantess) with her brothers, Daniel and Levon Balian, and their families.

“Sara was everybody’s best friend,” says Levon. “In times when she had taken ill, she never complained and always tried to remain positive. Everyone who knew her loved her and she will be missed.”

The post Sara Vosgarichian Dedicated Her Life to the ARS appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

Robert Joseph Kessel passed away on March 1, in Gaylord, Mich. He was born in Pontiac on June 17, 1934, on Fathers’ Day. Bob was the only child of Bertram and Marguerite Kessel. His father was a metallurgist at GM Pontiac Motor Division. Robert grew up spending summers on Elk Lake, near Attica. His loves were fishing, boats, classic cars, and his family.

Robert Joseph Kessel

Robert graduated from Pontiac Senior High School, where he was an accomplished Drum Major and a Latin class standout. He entered the U.S. Army in November, 1954, during the Korean War. Stationed in Europe, he helped to build military camps in France.

After returning to civilian life, he married Betty Apigian in 1963, and gave a loving home to his wife and two sons, Robert Bradley and Brent. He was also a proud grandfather of Cole and Armen Kessel. Bob and Betty were always together. In 1964, they bought a party store in Pontiac and operated it for a number of years. Although he was held up several times, and was shot one time, Bob refused to give in to the criminal element and remained in business. A hard working man, he worked 15 hours a day, 7 days a week, in the store.

Robert was a quiet man who, together with Betty, attended kebab dinners, Armenian lectures, book signings, and many other Armenian activities, caused people to call Bob an “ABC”—Armenian By Choice! He took pride in his wife’s weekly columns in the Armenian Weekly; he learned and respected Armenian history from his father-in-law, Mamigon Apigian, who had introduced Bob to his daughter, Betty. The family enjoyed summer nights on the Apigian porch, drinking cold beer and eating his mother-in-law, Takouhie’s cheese, or hamburger beoregs. Notably, among his many virtues, as a veteran and a patriot, Robert remained a steadfast member of the American Legion for the rest of his life.

Military Honors and interment committal took place on March 5, in Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Mich.

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The Armenian Weekly editors and staff wish to extend their sincere and heartfelt condolences to longtime Armenian Weekly columnist Betty Apigian Kessel for the loss of her beloved husband Robert Joseph Kessel, who passed away on March 1.

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NORTH ANDOVER, Mass.—The St. Gregory Armenian Church community has lost its oldest and most venerable member.

Charlie Jamgochian lights a final candle at his beloved St. Gregory Church.

Charlie Jamgochian entered the Kingdom of Heaven on March 20 after an unexpected illness. He was 94 and an exemplary role model for his devotion and benevolence.

Despite a 30-mile commute each way from his home in Medford, Charlie seldom missed a Sunday due to distance or unfavorable traffic conditions.

He could be counted on to attend Sunday Badarak with regularity, Men’s Club meetings, picnics, and other social endeavors. He was a lifelong resident of Medford, working many years as a meat cutter in supermarkets.

A year ago, Charlie was presented a Prelacy award for distinguished service by His Eminence Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan.

“He’s such an amazing person for his age and surely a fine example for others like himself,” the Prelate said then, in applauding the recipient. “He holds an honorable place with God and His church.”

The tribute came during the Prelacy’s “Year of the Elderly,” when people like Charlie were celebrated. He was indeed a “poster child” for his generation.

Right up to the end, Charlie never acted his true age. He’d carve up the turkey and beef during church dinners and even joined the children one “Paregentan” in attempting a hula-hoop maneuver. Nobody got a bigger hand for his durability and patronage.

“Charlie amazed us all with his energy and vitality,” said Rev. Stephan Baljian, pastor. “His church has always been there for him and he answered every call diligently. He’ll surely be missed.”

In some respects, Charlie lived up to his name. In Armenian, Jamgochian translates out to “time keeper.”

“I always liked helping my church,” he said recently. “We have much to celebrate at St. Gregory’s and I loved being a part of it. I particularly enjoyed helping the school children because they represent our future. The only way a church can succeed is if everyone lends a hand.”

His days at St. Gregory Church date back to 1970 when the doors first opened. Charlie performed his carpentry skills, whether it was adding a new door for the office or refurbishing a classroom.

He’s been a worthy philanthropist, a friend in need, and a living testament to morality and goodness. The spirit often transcended to the dance floor. For decades, right up to a few years ago, he continued regularly with ballroom dancing.

He leaves a son, John, and daughter-in-law, Ruth, of Medford; a daughter, Susan Hanlon, of Plymouth; five grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and his sister, Lillian Carbone.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Gregory Church, 158 Main St., North Andover, MA 01845.

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Born in Tabriz, Iran, to Levon and Nektar Gregorian, Zareh Gregorian was the youngest of five brothers, Hrach, Rouben, Asik, and his surviving brother Henry.

Zareh Gregorian

Zareh received his early education in Tabriz and then attended Tehran University where he met the love of his life and future wife of 59 years, Emily Shultz. Upon graduating with honors he was awarded a full scholarship by the Shah of Iran to attended Harvard University for a masters of science in engineering. While studying in Boston, Zareh and Emily had their first son, Fredrick, who, several years later, was followed by Garen and Oshin. After graduating from Harvard, Zareh returned to Tehran and launched his own firm and also began the pursuit of one of his great passions, teaching. He taught at the University of Tehran and at the National University of Iran for more than 20 years, and was eventually awarded an honorary doctorate.

His work in Tehran centered around projects for the Persian royal family, including Golestan Palace and Keish Palace; however, his favorite project was the mausoleum of the famed Persian poet Omar Khayam.

In the early 1980’s, he and his family settled back in Boston where he founded Gregorian Engineers and continued his passion for teaching by returning to lecture at his alma mater, Harvard University, as well as teaching at Tufts University. As an engineer he worked for several leading educational institutions in New England, including Harvard, Tufts, Boston, and Brown universities. He also worked on several local projects, including the Berkshire Medical Center, the BU Medical Center, the VA Cemetery in Winchendon, the Arnold Arboretum, and the Armenian Heritage Memorial on the Rose Kennedy Greenway. He received several awards from both the American and Boston Society of Architects, among many others.

For those who knew Zareh well, his passion and love for classical music was no secret. Classical music was the foundation of his life. He grew up surrounded by music, whether taking lessons, going to concerts, or performing himself. Zareh began his studies in piano at the age of 6 with his mother. His father also greatly influenced his musical pursuits as he was a well-known conductor, violinist, and music teacher. By the age of 18, Zareh flourished as an accomplished concert pianist and accompanist. This love of music stayed with him throughout his days, whether it was during the time he spent serving on the board of the Friends of Armenian Culture Society, or at home playing Chopin’s’ Nocturnes. His love of music was always present in both his body and mind.

Family, both those near and far, were always kept close to his heart. Zareh cherished letters and cards from his nieces and nephews with updates about their lives and families. Zareh had such pride for his immediate family, his wife Emily, his son Fredrick and wife Lisa, his son Garen, and his son Oshin and wife Sarah, and his cherished grandchildren, Rouben and Tenny.

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Arevik and Ara Caprielian in Yerevan

Dr. Ara Caprielian, 72, passed away on Tues., April 14, in New York. He was an active and dedicated member of the Armenian community. Unger Caprielian was a former member of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Eastern Region Central Committee, and a longtime member of the ARF “Armen Garo” Gomideh of New York. He was one of the founding members of the New York Hamazkayin Chapter, as well as a longtime supporter and contributor to the Hairenik and Armenian Weekly newspapers (his most recent article in the Armenian Weekly, titled “Thoughts as We Approach the Centennial of the Armenian Genocide,” was published on March 7, 2015). Dr. Caprielian leaves behind his beloved wife Arevik, and his son Armen.

The wake will take place on Sun., April 19, at the St. Illuminator’s Armenian Cathedral at 221 East 27th St. in Manhattan, from 6-9 p.m. A religious service will be held at 7 p.m. The funeral service will be conducted on Mon., April 20, at 10 a.m., at the St. Illuminator’s Cathedral, followed by the burial service at the Cedar Grove Cemetery, located at 130-04 Horace Harding Expressway, Flushing, N.Y.

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The ARF Eastern Region Central Committee mourns the death of former Central Committee member Unger Ara Caprielian on Tues., April 14, and extends its deepest condolences to his loved ones.

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The ARF New York “Armen Garo” Gomideh extends its heartfelt condolences to Arevik and Armen Caprielian on the passing of their husband, and father, Unger Ara Caprielian.

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The Hamazkayin Armenian Educational and Cultural Society of Eastern USA extends its deepest condolences to the family of Dr. Ara Caprielian, a longtime member and supporter of the organization.

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The editors and staff of the Hairenik and Armenian Weekly newspapers extend their deepest condolences to Arevik and Armen Caprielian, for the loss of their husband, and father, Unger Ara Caprielian, a longtime contributor of the newspapers.

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NEW YORK—Dr. Ara Caprielian didn’t have to mine for gold in the hills and streams of California to discover his richness.

He was born with it!

Dr. Ara Caprielian

Those who knew him would tend to agree. He was the man behind the voice and it always came across strong and distinct.

Aboard the Armenian Heritage Cruise, his monologue was the first you would hear over the loud speaker, briefing guests about coming events and supplying his pearls of wisdom along the way. Unflappable and unwavering.

If the elocution didn’t draw you into the fold, his personality usually did. Always affable, approachable, and smiling. In most cases, he didn’t have to meet your acquaintance. He knew you by name, by face, and by distinction. Strangers were friends waiting to be met.

His death April 14 drew a pall of grief throughout the Armenian community. The 72-year-old was like the rest of the Armenian world—prepared to commemorate this Genocide Centennial.

His most recent article in the Armenian Weekly—“Thoughts as We Approach the Centennial of the Armenian Genocide,” published March 7—drew a marked impression with this writer. He spoke for all of us and to us all.

“It’s with great fondness and respect that we remember Ara as a devoted son of Armenia,” said two close friends, Harry and Margo Derderian, of Farmington, Mich. “In his quiet and unassuming manner, he was a devoted Armenian spirit whose concept of nationalism was his many years of dedication to Hai Tahd.”

“Ara provided awareness of our proud culture and the betterment of the Armenian community-at-large. His contribution to the community and Eastern Region will long be respected,” they added.

Harry went on to say what a cohesive force his comrade-in-arms was whenever there was ANCA work to be done.

“You could always count on him to take the initiative,” he said.

Another, Daniel Sagherian, didn’t know him personality, yet found some adequate words to describe him. Sagheran said he enjoyed reading Ara’s articles in the press, and used such adjectives as “realistic,” “pragmatic,” and “to-the-point thinker.”

In some ways, Ara could have been the model for Rodin’s “Thinker,” always in thought and meditation before forming his words. Analytic.

Together with wife, Arevik, they seemed the perfect march. Where you saw one, the other was sure to follow.

On this USS Love Boat, you’d usually catch both of them starting their day by teaching Armenian classes.

You’d find them giving enrichment lessons and anything else cultural. Many stayed aboard the vessel just to become better Armenians and not better scuba divers. The instruction was part of your package.

Year after year, day and week upon end, the Caprielians were into their labor of love, a mission that often brought its gratitude by hundreds who sailed the Caribbean seas.

You would find Ara over the years chairing up a Gomideh convention and using his parliamentary ways to restore some semblance of order. He knew the rules and employed them handily. When he spoke, people listened.

As a founding member of the New York Hamazkayin Chapter, he always put his best foot forward for the enhancement of our community. There were impediments on the road, obstacles to be overcome, but somehow this “road runner” found a way to elude them. An optimist always finds a way.

Our condolences go also to son Armen, who appeared a chip off his dad’s block.

Death is not the end of a good and humble Armenian—just the beginning. Legacies are based upon deed and accomplishments in our society. It’s up to those he loved and touched to continue his unwavering patriotism.

Only then will Dr. Ara Caprielian rest in peace.

The post Ara Caprielian Lived the Golden Armenian Life appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

By Sonia I. Ketchian

Dr. Jacob Sarkis Nakshian, Jr., of Attleboro, Mass., who died on Jan. 4, 2015, was the younger son born on June 17, 1927, in Providence, R.I., to Jacob Nakshian, Sr., who founded a chapter of the Armenian General Benevolent Union in Rhode Island early in the 20^th century, and Armenian Genocide survivor Altoon Noorigian Nakshian.

Dr. Jacob Sarkis Nakshian, Jr.

Jacob (called Argie by his neighborhood friends) belonged to that generation of American-born youngsters who, in the words of Prof. James Russell of Harvard University, never knew their grandparents. Father Jacob made certain his two little sons Charlie and Argie were well integrated in their American environment, and every Saturday used to send older sister Bertha to the movies with them. The boys spent summers in Lowell, Mass., at the home of their then-married sister Bertha Ketchian and Tzolag “Harry” Ketchian, where they made friends with many young people, played baseball at the Lowell Common (with their father’s cousins Jacob, whose daughter Karen Guregian is a sportswriter for the Boston Herald, and Jerry Guregian, and neighbors, the Manoian brothers, one of whom was Howard Manoian of Normandy fame), admiringly played games with their little Lowell niece and nephew, and discussed seminal topics with brilliant Tzolag. Argie recalled Tzolag taking him to a Communist Party cell meeting in Lowell after the Soviet Union had attacked Finland in 1939, where at age 12 Argie argued with the adults concerning Soviet aggression against the smaller Finland.

Thus nurtured by his loving family, Argie grew up strong, healthy, inquisitive, vital, full of joie de vivre, and always ready to quip and joke in his parents’ home, where brother Charlie’s numerous framed paintings enhanced the tasteful parlor, dining room, and bedroom sets selected by Altoon.

An avid, thoughtful reader and brilliant analyzer of everything he read and heard, young Jacob graduated in 1945 from Hope High School in Providence, where although he played football and baseball, focused on fencing. He was drafted into the Navy on V.E. Day Aug. 14, 1945, amidst the unending trauma hanging over the family ever since older brother Charles, who had begun studies on a scholarship at the Rhode Island School of Design, was killed in action during the battle of Anzio (Italy, 1944). All the many other relatives fighting for the U.S. (Sarkisians, Noorigians, Kalajians, Nakshians, Kazanjian, etc.) returned safely (see Daphne Abeel’s interview in the Armenian Mirror-Spectator on the four Noorigian brothers, Dec. 1, 2001, “The Noorigian Brothers—Heroes at War and At Home”).

After discharge from the Navy, choosing Harvard over Yale, Jacob entered Harvard College on the G.I. Bill, where he majored in social relations. He served on the Student Council and Finance Committee, and played House Tackle Football at Dunster House. In a letter to his sister Bertha Nakshian Ketchian, author of In the Shadow of the Fortress: The Genocide Remembered (Cambridge, MA: Zoryan Institute, 1988), he quipped that he wished the ongoing Providence teachers strike had occurred during his time there. At college the young man became a member of Phi Beta Kappa and in 1950 graduated magna cum laude with an A.B. in social relations. Among his professors (Dunlop, Schlesinger, Parsons) was Prof. Clyde Kluckhohn, the first director of Harvard’s Russian Research Center, who taught him “Anthropology and Modern Life” (grade A). His substantive honors thesis was titled, “The Armenian Youth Federation of America” (99 pages). Jacob considered a career in journalism, as he wrote to Bertha, but instead entered graduate studies at the University of Connecticut, earning his M.A. in clinical psychology in 1952 and his Ph.D. in clinical psychology in 1956. His Ph.D. dissertation was titled, “An Investigation of the Effects of Red and Green Surroundings on Behavior.” Among the students he taught at the University of Connecticut was his future wife Anne Whelan, an undergraduate in social studies. The couple married on Dec. 31, 1955.

For two years, Jacob served as a clinical psychologist with the Veterans Administration in a V.A. Hospital in Albany, N.Y., before moving to Worcester, Mass., to work in an out-patient clinic for 10 years. In Worcester, Jacob and Anne were active in the Armenian church. After that the couple moved to Attleboro, Mass., exchanging employment with the federal government and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts where Dr. Nakshian was named chief psychologist beginning at the Attleboro Mental Health Center Community Mental Health Center, serving five towns.

Dr. Nakshian worked for 40 years as a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist in the Attleboro area at the Mental Health Center and Community Care Services and also taught courses at Clark University, the University of Rhode Island, and Bristol Community College. At one time he also had a part-time private practice. Fellow psychologist, Dr. Elsa Ronningstam of McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School, notes that “Dr. Nakshian’s dedication to his patients’ welfare was extraordinary. He had the ability to combine outstanding knowledge and sensitivity with appropriate interventions that contributed to major positive changes and progress in his patients’ mental health, as well as the ability to engage in their lives.” He retired in 2008.

A devoted family man, Jacob happily tended the gardens and their lovely home. He was an avid birdwatcher, played tennis, loved the cinema, the theater, enjoyed traveling on vacation with wife Anne, and remained a voracious critical reader. Extended family gatherings for the holidays were happy events. Anne predeceased him by one month. His own illness notwithstanding, at Anne’s memorial, Argie, Harvard man that he was, from memory gave a brilliant substantive impassioned eulogy that all present raved over, repeatedly calling it “amazing,” and Charlie Sarkisian described in awe, “He made us laugh, he made us cry.” Yet not one of them with all their gadgets thought of taping Jacob Nakshian’s swan song.

Jacob Nakshian leaves his daughters Laura Ward and Elizabeth, and son William; grandchildren Helen and Nathan Ward, Jacob and Rachel Nakshian; nieces Gloria Casparian, Dr. Sonia Ketchian; nephew Philip Ketchian and wife Dr. Elsa Ronningstam; cousins (nephews of Leo Sarkisian) Charles Sarkisian and Steven Sarkisian, Ed and Ralph Flori. Among his many cousins are Dr. Stanley Surabian and Helen Beth Noorigian Krispien. Sisters Elmas Bedrosian and Bertha Ketchian, and brother Charles Nakshian predeceased him; as did first cousins Arshaluis Hoogasian, Araxi Sarkisian, Akabi Sarkisian (mother of Leo Sarkisian), and Teresa Noorigian; cousins Peniamin Noorigian (the eminent Armenian-American writer and editor) and Zaven “Jack” Noorigian; and niece Anna Kayarian and grand-niece Carol Casparian.

The post Dr. Jacob S. Nakshian, Jr.: An Appreciation appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

By Sahag Dakesian

Born on Oct. 25, 1914, in Kghi, Western Armenia, Berjouhi (Berj) and her mother, Alem Alemian Siroonian, escaped the Armenian Genocide and immigrated to the United States in 1919. On one of the forced marches and deportations from Kghi through Erzerum, through the desert, on through Kars, Ardahan, Tbilisi, and finally Yerevan, her brother and sisters were lost and never heard from again. The only reason Berj survived was that she was tied on to her mother’s back.

Berjouhi Kailian

They left Yerevan in 1919 after receiving funds from her mother’s two younger brothers, Ghevont and Haroutiun (living in Weymouth, Mass.), and escaped through the northern mountains in Russia to travel via the Trans-Siberian Railroad to Vladivostok, Russia, and then to Yokohama, Japan. There they boarded the ship Mexico Maru to Seattle, and then by train traveled to their uncles’ home in Weymouth.

During this time, Berj’s mother, Alem, had married Dickran Seferian, who became her step-father. In 1922, a son, John, was born into the new family, and in 1924 a girl, Varsenig, was born into the family.

Berj enrolled in the Weymouth school system. After graduating from Weymouth High School in 1932, she attended and graduated from the Vesper George School of Art in Boston in 1936. From art school, she went into the retail field, which included traveling to New York, where she visited the great museums.

In 1940, Berj married Vahan Kailian, a survivor from Kharpert. With their two young sons, Vaughn and Gregory, the family eventually moved overseas and lived from 1949-56 in Germany and France while Vahan performed diplomatic duties at local U.S. embassies. During this period, Berj attended the prestigious Julien School of Fine Arts in Paris, and her two sons enrolled in the Mekhitarist’s schools in the local areas.

In 1957, the family moved back to the U.S., and Berj opened and operated an art gallery—Treasure Shoppe—in Hingham, Mass. For 20 years, the gallery catered to local area artists and the South Shore Art Center where she taught once a week. In the 1970’s, she continued her art studies at the DeCordova Museum in Lincoln, Mass. At the age of 65, she sold her Art Shoppe to attend the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, and from there enrolled at Tufts University, graduating in 1984 with a B.F.A. in Fine Arts. Berj held positions on the board of advisors and faculty of the South Shore Art Center in Cohasset and the Weymouth Arts Council, and on the board of directors of the Copley Society in Boston.

Berj made three trips to Armenia including, one in 1986 with a group of four artists, invited to an exhibit in Yerevan. During those trips she developed a strong desire to make rubbings on Japanese papers of the khatchkars in Yerevan and surrounding areas. Her various art works can be found hanging in the permanent collections of the Armenian State Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Modern Art in Armenia, as well as the Armenian Library and Museum of America (ALMA) in Watertown.

Berj also served the greater Boston Armenian community as a lecturer, teacher, benefactor, and major fundraiser. Her favorite charities were the Armenian Museum of America (AMA), the Children of Armenia Fund (COAF), and the Berj Jamgochian Gomidas Organ Fund founded in the 1970’s by Berj Jamgochian, the internationally acclaimed organ soloist with the Boston Symphony and Pops Orchestras. The Gomidas Fund was established to mark the 100^th anniversary of the birth of Gomidas Vartabed (Soghomon Soghomonian), an Armenian priest, musicologist, composer, and founder of the Armenian National School of Music.

Berj Kailian was also a staunch advocate for local Native American issues. She gave generous donations of plaques and memorial stones at the Wessagusset Beach-Sea Memorial in Weymouth. She found many similarities between the Armenian and Native American backgrounds, because they both went through similar experiences.

God bless the soul of my warm and close (second) cousin.

The post Berjouhi Kailian (1914-2014) appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

On Sun. May 31, a 40-day Requiem Service (Karasunk) in memory of Dr. Ara Caprielian will be held at the St. Illuminator’s Armenian Cathedral in Manhattan, N.Y.

Unger Ara Caprielian

An active and dedicated member of the Armenian community, Dr. Caprielian passed away on April 14 in New York. He is survived by his wife Arevik and son Armen. With his passing, he left a significant void in the Armenian-American community of the East Coast, and the Armenian nation at large.

Dr. Caprielian’s ancestors hailed from the village of Havav, in the Western Armenian province of Palu. His heritage and link to Western Armenia were central to his life.

Unger Caprielian was a former member of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Eastern Region Central Committee, and a long-time member of the ARF “Armen Garo” Gomideh of New York. He was one of the founding members of the New York Hamazkayin Chapter, an active member of the Armenian Heritage Cruise committee, as well as a long-time supporter and contributor to the Hairenik and Armenian Weekly newspapers.

In his most recent article in the Armenian Weekly, titled “Thoughts as We Approach the Centennial of the Armenian Genocide,” published on March 7, Dr. Caprielian concluded with the following message to the Armenian people regarding the Armenian Genocide Centennial:

“Hopefully, beginning—yet not ending—with the Armenian Genocide Centennial, we will demonstrate to friend and foe alike our unwavering pursuit of justice by channeling our intellectual and material resources toward that end. No matter how long and painstaking the struggle, we will persevere, for our Cause is just and our commitment is forever.”

Messages of sympathy and condolences poured in memory of Dr. Caprielian as a dedicated community member and advocate of the Armenian cause:

“Ara was a noble human being, and a wonderful defender of Armenian and human rights.”

“His unwavering belief in doing what is right carried him through all his days, and that has been a great inspiration and motivator to many.”

“He was a devoted and knowledgeable member of the Hamazkayin.”

“In his years serving the ARF and other Armenian organizations, he did more than his share for our cause and nation; he was a devoted and knowledgeable advocate of the cause.”

“Unger Caprielian was a shining example of our noble experiment, the maintenance of our Armenian identity in exile. His citizenship may have been American, but his identity was Armenian. His memory will be revered by those who truly knew him.”

The post In Memory of Unger Ara Caprielian appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

When I Wake Up

When I wake up I look forward
to a good day.

When I wake up I look forward
to telling more people about Armenia. 

When I wake up I look forward
to fight for Armenia.

When I wake up I look forward
to tell people to help Armenia.

When I wake up I hope a child
from Armenia gets food.

When I wake up I look forward
to no more genocide.

I got up. I am ready to fight
for Armenia.

– Maral Melkonian, age 13
AYF Washington D.C. “Sevan” Juniors
The Armenian Weekly, April 20, 1996

***

‘Ready to Fight for Armenia’: A Remembrance of Maral Melkonian Avetisyan
(Jan. 12, 1983 – April 13, 2015)

By Elizabeth Chouldjian

Words invariably fail when we seek to speak of the tragic loss of a young friend and a comrade-in-arms in the pursuit of strengthening the Homeland and advancing our collective Cause. And so, I turn to a poem printed in the Armenian Weekly on April 20, 1996, composed by Maral, herself, to offer an early glimpse of her passion and pursuit for justice.

Maral Melkonian Avetisyan (Jan. 12, 1983 – April 13, 2015)

In “When I Wake Up”—written less than 5 years after the re-establishment of an independent Armenia and just 2 years after the tenuous ceasefire that would end the fighting in Artsakh—13-year-old Maral Melkonian issued a challenge to the Armenian nation—a Zartonki Gotch, if you will—to fight for a democratic and economically vibrant Armenia, where our children can flourish and live in a world without genocide.

It is this simple truth, this clarion call, that she would live by for the rest of her life.

But, her friends and family knew that from the start.

Born on Jan. 12, 1983, in Silver Spring, Md., Maral was always the delight of her parents Ara and Haikanouche Melkonian and older brother, Raffi. She attended St. Catherine Laboure from Kindergarten to 5^th grade; St. Martin Catholic School from 6^th through 8^th grade; then graduated from Good Counsel High School and received her Bachelor of Arts in English language and literature in 2007 from the University of Maryland, College Park.

But her heart was always in Armenia and the Armenian community, scampering as a toddler in the Soorp Khatch Armenian Church Arabian Hall, attending and graduating from Hamasdegh Armenian School, and devoting her volunteer time to organizations including Homenetmen, Armenian Youth Federation (AYF), AYF Camp Haiastan, Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA), Armenia Volunteer Corps (AVC), and Birthright Armenia.

She led by example from the very beginning, holding multiple executive positions in the AYF D.C. “Sevan” Juniors and “Ani” Seniors and attending Camp Haiastan both as a camper and a counselor.

In Homenetmen, she inspired fellow Scouts as a khmpabed and traveled to Armenia in 1998 and 2002 to participate in the worldwide jamborees. In 2006, she would return to the Homeland, this time through the AYF, AVC, and Birthright Armenia, to spend the summer working with children at the Naregatsi Art Institute in Artsakh and the Khnko Aper Children’s Library in Yerevan. In 2007, she went back for a second consecutive summer, this time as director of the AYF Armenia Internship Program.

Upon her return, as she explored career opportunities, Maral interned at the ANCA. On the first day of her volunteer time at our D.C. headquarters, as we were coming up the stairs to our third floor offices, Maral shared, “In my years in the AYF, coming to meetings, I would listen to you and Aram [Hamparian] talk about efforts to get U.S. assistance to Armenia or demand justice for the Armenian Genocide, and I’d ask myself, ‘Are we really making a difference?’ Now, after these past summers in Armenia and Artsakh—working with the kids, speaking with the people—I get it. I know how important this work is, and I want to be a part of it.”

Maral shared those precious moments in Artsakh and Armenia with community, friends, and family in the U.S., and continued her steady and consistent stream of volunteer efforts all for the furthering of nation and Cause. She was an ardent advocate of the Armenia Volunteer Corps and Birthright Armenia, encouraging everyone she met to take the opportunity, travel to Armenia, and give back to the Homeland.

In time she would meet and marry a true kindred spirit—Tigran Avetisyan—and they, together, would embark on a journey of faith and fulfillment that would brighten the lives of all who knew and loved them.

Our community and nation hoped to cherish and grow with Maral through the decades, inspired by her smile and can-do attitude, but fate had other plans. Our Maral would leave us on April 13, 2015, just weeks before the Armenian Genocide Centennial—a milestone in the battle for justice that held such great meaning for her.

At her wake, surrounded by hundreds of friends and family members who had gathered to share their love and pay their respects, it was the poignant words of her brother, Raffi, that touched one and all. Raffi explained that when Maral learned of her illness, she turned to those most dear to her and said, “I’m sorry to put you through this,” and immediately sought to put all at ease.

That is the Maral that we will always remember—the selfless, thoughtful, blessed soul, who put family, community, and nation above all else, whether at age 13 or 31.

The Melkonian and Avetisyan families are encouraging all who loved Maral and wish to continue her good works to support the ANCA Endowment Fund. Donations in Maral’s memory may be mailed to ANCA Endowment Fund, 1711 N Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20036 or offered online at www.anca.org/inmemoryofmaral (please cite Maral Melkonian Avetisyan in the “comments” section).

So many have already joined the Melkonian and Avetisyan families through generous contributions to the ANCA Endowment Fund, including Mr. & Mrs. Ohannes and Chouchan Aghguiguian; Mrs. Jeannette Alemian; Mr. & Mrs. Steve and Sarine Altan; Mr. & Mrs. Kevork and Shoghik Altounian; Mr. Daniel Apelian; Mr. & Mrs. Simon and Sose Arabian; Mr. & Mrs. Chaha and Ani Araklian; Mr. & Mrs. Garo and Vrejoohie Armenian; Mr. & Mrs. Ara and Ani Asatoorian; Mr. & Mrs. Sebouh and Maro Asatoorian; Mr. Artavazd Avetisyan; Mr. David Avetisyan; Mr. Tigran Avetisyan; Mr. & Mrs. Bedros and Stella Bandazian; Ms. Michelle Barsamian; Mr. & Mrs. Veh Bezdikian; Birthright Armenia; Mr. Jake Bournazian; Mr. Steve Canning; Mr. & Mrs. Oscar and Eleanor Caroglanian; Ms. Elizabeth Chouldjian; Ms. Marale Damirjian; Mr. Sahag Dardarian; Mr. & Mrs. Dion and Lucy Davitian; Mr. & Mrs. Hamo and Mirra Dersookian; Ms. Elizabeth Direnfeld; Mr. & Mrs. Edward and Sosse Dombalagian; Miss Natalie Doudaklian; Mr. Haig Eskandarian; Mr. & Mrs. Missak and Ani Festekjian; Mr. & Mrs. Peter and Lilian Festekjian; Mr. & Mrs. Raffi and Kristin Festekjian; Mr. & Mrs. Yeprem and Talar Festekjian; Mr. & Mrs. Voskan and Anik Galooshian; Mrs. Seda Gelenian; Mr. & Mrs. Richard and Alleen Ghazaryans; Ms. Christine Hannett Garner; Mr. & Mrs. Nader and Sophia Hawit; Mr. & Mrs. Chris and Tsoghig Hekimian; Mr. & Mrs. Zohrob and Lorrie Hovsapian; Mr. & Mrs. John and Ardemis Jerikian; Mr. & Mrs. Sarkis & Sonia Kasbarian; Ms. Talar Kasbarian; Mr. & Mrs. Vartkes and Ani Keshishian; Mr. & Mrs. Vicken and Ani Khatchadourian; Mr. & Mrs. Norayr and Sossy Khatcheressian; Dr. Sevan Kolejian; Mr. Aret Koseian; Mr. & Mrs. Chris and Karina Krikorian; Mr. & Mrs. Dave and Isabel Kubikian; Mr. & Mrs. Jim and Nora Kzirian; Mr. & Mrs. Dickran and Paulette Lehimdjian; Mr. Bob Marsteller; Mr. Boghossian Meguerditch; Mr. & Mrs. Ara and Haygo Melkonian; Mr. Khajag Melkonian; Mr. & Mrs. Raffi and Medea Melkonian; Mr. & Mrs. Armen and Taleen Moughamian; Mr. & Mrs. Krikor and Maro Moussessian; Mr. & Mrs. Areen and Maria Movsessian; Mr. & Mrs. Sebouh and Michelle Nahabedian; Mr. Ara Nahapetian; Mr. & Mrs. Hratch and Linda Najarian; Mr. & Mrs. Maurice and Vartouhi Najarian; Dr. & Mrs. Guiragos and Sossy Poochikian; Ms. Nayiri Poochikian; Mr. & Mrs. Sevag and Natalie Poochikian; Mr. & Mrs. Rudi and Rita Shafakian; Ms. Jemma Simonian; Ms. Ojenee Simonian; Ms. Yeran Simonian; Mr. & Mrs. Martin and Sylva Surabian; Mr. & Mrs. Andre and Karineh Tarpinian; Mr. & Mrs. Haroutun and Nevart Tatarian; Mr. & Mrs. Kevork and Suzy Tatarian; Mr. & Mrs. Philip and Hakinth Terpandjian; Ms. Rita Terterian; Mr. & Mrs. Michael Torosian; Mr. & Mrs. Hampar and Mary Vartanian; Mr. & Mrs. Chuck and Sema Yessaian.

The post ‘Ready to Fight for Armenia’: A Remembrance of Maral Melkonian Avetisyan appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

Armine Manoukian Saryan was born on Feb. 11, 1921, in Talas, Asia Minor, and passed away on May 13, 2015, at her home in Thousand Oaks, Calif., with her children by her side. She was the fourth child of Ohannes Manoukian and Guluzar Ohanian of Gesaria (Caesarea). Her father was a teacher and school principal from a large family, and her mother was a skilled seamstress from a large and well-to-do family that traced its ancestry to the princely Mamigonian house of ancient Armenia. Her mother’s brothers were engaged in the silk rug trade and had established commercial connections in Egypt and England. Both of her parents were survivors of the 1915 Armenian Genocide.

Armine M. Saryan (1921-2015)

Her parents were married in 1912. During the genocide, her father, like many other Armenian men, was drafted into a labor battalion and was engaged in road construction. He became ill and ended up in a “hospital” where poison was being administered to the patients. He was rescued by his wife, who had refused to join the deportation caravans and instead taken her family (a niece Dikranouhi, a daughter Marineh, and a son Sarkis) into hiding. They would travel by night in the Greek villages near Gesaria and remain concealed during the day. After the danger had passed, Guluzar nursed her husband back to health, but lost her first three children in difficult circumstances. Over the next few years Ohannes taught in the National Coeducational School of Gesaria, after which he taught at the American College in Talas.

In 1921, Armine moved with her parents to Antelias, Lebanon, where her father was employed as a teacher at the American Near East Relief orphanage. He was instrumental in gathering Armenian orphans from Turkish homes in the Gesaria region to Antelias. After the orphanage facility at Antelias was transferred to the Catholicosate of Cilicia, Armine moved with her family to Eshrefiyeh (a district of Beirut), where her father established a school and continued to teach. As Armine once wrote, in those days Armenian school was just as important as bread for survival.

Armine soon entered the Jemaran (College Armenien of Beirut) where she studied under Levon Shant, Nikol Aghbalian, and Parsegh Ganatchian, three of the leading intellectuals and teachers of the Armenian Diaspora. Both Shant and Aghbalian had served in prominent roles in the government of the first independent Republic of Armenia. Armine excelled in Armenian (both Western and Eastern dialects) as well as French language and literature, and could recite from memory the works of numerous famous poets. After graduating from Jemaran in 1939, she taught there for eight years under Shant’s direction. It was there that she met her future husband, Sarkis Saryan, who had traveled from New York to Beirut to study Armenian while working at the American University of Beirut.

In 1947, she was accepted as an undergraduate at the American University in Washington, D.C., traveling to the United States on a student visa. Within a year she married Sarkis; they would share 54 years together and raise 4 children. The family settled in Wilmington, Del., where Armine taught French at Carrcroft School. Meanwhile, she found time to teach the Armenian language at the Shant Varjaran in Broomall, Pa. She also performed in amateur theatre; in 1964, she played the leading female role (Teofano) in a highly acclaimed stage presentation of Shant’s “Gaisr” produced by the Armenian Educational Committee of Philadelphia. She had a sweet soprano voice and would often perform impromptu with tarist Haig Ohanian at the famous Hillside Lodge resort in Tannersville, N.Y.

In 1971, the family moved to Rockford, Mich., where Armine was active as chairwoman of the Grand Rapids ARS Chapter. With her husband she retired to Cape Cod, where she took up oil painting, creating over a dozen beautiful canvases of medieval Armenian churches. She traveled to Armenia several times with her husband and children. An avid reader, she voraciously consumed the historical prose of Dzerents, Malkhas, and Raffi, as well as the poetry of Siamanto, Daniel Varoujan, and Charents. After her husband’s passing in 2001, she moved to California to be near her youngest daughter Arlene, who provided care for her mother during her final years.

She contributed regularly to the Hairenik publications (Hairenik Daily, Armenian Weekly, and Armenian Review) with poems, articles, and translations. Her poetry, especially, was appreciated by late editor Reuben Darbinian and leading critics. She followed current events and would regularly correspond with newspapers on contemporary issues.

Armine’s teachers, whom she held in utmost esteem, forever remained the guiding lights in her life. She felt herself extremely fortunate to have enjoyed such a high-caliber education despite her modest circumstances. She was a wonderful mother who sacrificed herself for her children and their education, and was immensely proud of their many accomplishments. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchild and was excited to learn of their progress.

She is survived by her brother Varoujan (of New York); four children, Levon (Shirley) of Wisconsin, John (Debbie) of Andover, Mass., Judith (Victor Zarougian) of Cambridge, Mass., and Arlene (Christian Alexander) of Thousand Oaks, Calif.; eight grandchildren, Ani Saryan, Armen Saryan, Diana (Diran Balekian), Valerie Saryan, Melanie Saryan, Laura Zarougian, Garen Alexander, and Sean Alexander; and a great-grandson, Jack Balekian.

The funeral was held on May 23, 2015, at St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church in North Andover. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to St. Gregory Church (158 Main St., N. Andover, MA 01845), the Armenian Apostolic Church of Ventura County (c/o St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church, 1 Church Rd., Thousand Oaks, CA 91362), or the Wisconsin chapter of the Society for Orphaned Armenian Relief (P.O. Box 210313, Milwaukee, WI 53221).

The post Armine M. Saryan (1921-2015) appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

Zarry Sahagian Sarkisian died in her sleep in the early afternoon on Fri., June 26, succumbing to a weakened heart, failing kidneys, and eventually cancer. Son George was at her side as she drew her last breath along with loving cousin Diane Masropian Mercuri. George had been at the hospice and the hospital on a 24-hour basis for much of the last couple of months and had been her full-time caregiver for most of the last few years. Loyal Armenian Relief Society (ARS) Detroit “Sybille” Chapter member Mary Afetian George was also a great support in the final weeks.

Zarry was born in Windsor, Ontario, Canada on Aug. 14, 1925, the only child of Dickran and Serpouhey (Masropian) Sahagian, both natives of Van, Armenia. She attended Neinas Elementary, Maybury Junior High, and Western High School in Detroit, and graduated in January 1943 with honors. She continued her education at Wayne University for two years before working at the Edson, Moore and Company Wholesale Dry Goods firm.

Zarry’s entire life was one of giving and dedication. Her early years were dedicated to caring for her mother who suffered from Parkinson’s disease.

Zarry married Harry Harten Sarkisian of Galt, Ontario on July 10, 1948. Harry was the son of Kevork and Gozal Sarkisian, also both natives of Van. Zarry and Harry had three children, Sharon, George, and Patricia.

Zarry was a lifelong member of St. Sarkis Armenian Apostolic Church in Dearborn, Mich. She taught Sunday School for 25 years, and was also one of the first female members of the Board of Trustees.

The Armenian Relief Society was a very important part of her life. She served in many executive positions, as a convention delegate, and mentored generations of young members during her 71-year membership.

The Vasbouragan Society also benefited from Zarry’s executive talents during her lifelong membership with the Vanetzi organization.

She was involved with various public school committees while her children were gaining their Dearborn public school education. She also loved arts and crafts and had a variety of collections and interests.

Zarry is survived by her son George and daughter Sharon Dardarian, Ph.D.; six grandchildren, Nicole (Toubassi), Jeffrey, Matthew, and Mary (D’Ascoli), and Sona and Sarkis Dagley, as well as five great-grandchildren and two adorable cats.

She is pre-deceased by her parents, Dickran and Serpouhey, her husband Harry, her youngest daughter Yeretzgeen Patricia Dagley, and her son-in-law Father Haroutiun Randy Dagley.

May God rest the soul of one of His most exemplary Christian children.

The funeral service took place on Mon., June 29, at St. Sarkis Armenian Church, with burial at Woodmere Cemetery in Detroit.

The post Zarry Sahagian Sarkisian (1925-2015) appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

Kenneth Earl Najarian, MD, FSIR, 60, of Charlotte, Vt., and of “Shore Acres” North Kingstown, R.I., an interventional radiologist and a professor of radiology at the University of Vermont College of Medicine, was tragically killed by a drunk driver in Ferrisburgh, Vt., on Wednesday afternoon, June 17, while riding his bicycle. Dr. Najarian was the beloved husband of Kristine Mary (Thew) Najarian and the devoted father of Jared and Shannon. Ken, as he was known, was the son of the late John K. Najarian, associate justice of the Rhode Island Family Court, and the late Mary (Avedisian) Najarian.

Kenneth Earl Najarian, MD, FSIR,

Born in Providence, R.I., he was a graduate of the Providence Country Day School, a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of St. Lawrence University and the University of Vermont Medical School. He completed his medical internship at St Luke’s Hospital in Denver, Colo., and his residency in Diagnostic Radiology at the Medical Center Hospital of Vermont. Ken then completed fellowships in ultrasound and computed tomography at the Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, Pa., and in interventional radiology at Brown University and Rhode Island Hospital.

He returned to Vermont in 1985 to work at the University of Vermont College of Medicine and its Medical Center as an assistant professor and attending radiologist. He became an associate professor in 1992 and a full professor in 2001. He served as division director of cardiovascular and interventional radiology from 1998 to 2008. Ken directed the Vascular Interventional Radiology Fellowship Program from 1995 to 1999 and served on numerous College of Medicine committees, including the Admissions Committee. He was the first physician in Vermont to introduce modern and innovative interventional radiology techniques. He was nationally regarded as an expert in vascular interventional radiology and served on national committees, was a journal writer, and was a consultant to the industry on medical devices.

In addition to his loving wife and children, Ken is survived by his loving siblings and their spouses, Linda M. Najarian Koenig (Werner) of Warwick, R.I.; Carol E. Najarian Pjojian (Kenneth) of Cranston, R.I.; and John K. Najarian, Jr. (Linda) of North Kingstown, R.I. He was the adored uncle of Stefan, Neil, John III, and Mary Elizabeth.

Ken had a true love for life and was passionate about anything he undertook, whether it was bicycling, kiteboarding, snowboarding, drumming, or other athletic and artistic pursuits.

A life sadly ended too soon, Ken will be remembered for his devotion to Krissi, Jared, and Shannon, and for his keen intellect, adventurous spirit, family, and respected commitment to his profession.

The funeral service was held on Thurs., June 25 in Sts. Sahag & Mesrob Armenian Apostolic Church in Providence, followed by interment at Swan Point Cemetery, Providence. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Kenneth E. Najarian, M.D. may be made to The Sts. Sahag & Mesrob Endowment Fund, 70 Jefferson St., Providence, RI 02908. For online condolences, visit nardolillo.com.

The post Ken Najarian (1955-2015) appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

Rose DerSahakian, 103, of Westborough, Mass., passed away peacefully on July 7 at her home, surrounded by her loving family.

She is survived by her daughter Teresa and her husband Timothy O’Day of Westborough, with whom she lived for the past 30 years; her loving grandchildren Michael O’Day, and his fiancée Rachael Gramet of Brookline, and Kevin O’Day of Worcester; her sister Mary Belazarian of Worcester; her niece Linda Kaufman and her husband Robert of Worcester; her nephew James Belazarian of Worcester; and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Born in Harpoot, Armenia, she immigrated to the United States as a young child and eventually settled in Worcester with her family, where she grew up and spent the majority of her adult life. As one of the last survivors of the Armenian Genocide, which occurred during the early part of the 20^th century, Rose was feted as an honored guest during Worcester’s commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the genocide in April 2015. At that time, Congressman James McGovern (D-Worcester) sent a special letter to President Obama celebrating Rose’s life as a survivor of the genocide, as well as the lives of all those who perished. As proud as she was of her Armenian heritage, she was equally proud to be a citizen of her adopted home country, where she lived a long, productive, and happy life surrounded by her loving family.

Rose’s family would like to extend its most heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Gerry Aurigemma and Dr. Nancy Bennett of Westborough, as well as Dr. Diane Karalekas of Worcester, for the special care they bestowed upon her for the past 20 years. A very special thanks is also extended to Josey Santos of Worcester, Rose’s loving and caring attendant and companion for the past 18 months.

Funeral services will take place on Thurs., July 9, at 11 a.m. at the Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church, 635 Grove St., Worcester. A calling hour from 10-11 a.m. will precede the funeral service at the church. Burial will be in Hope Cemetery, Worcester. Nordgren Memorial Chapel, 300 Lincoln Street, Worcester is directing arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), Wellesley, MA, or the Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church of Worcester.

For more information, visit www.legacy.com/obituaries/telegram/obituary.aspx?n=rose-dersahakian&pid=175237943&fhid=12805#sthash.coIZIbGv.dpuf.

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Megerdich “Mike” Megerdichian was born on June 23, 1957, in Springfield, Mass., to the late Antranig and Mariam Mkrtschjan. The second of three siblings, he followed sister Varteni and was later joined by younger brother John.

Megerdich ‘Mike’ Megerdichian (1957-2015)

The Mkrtschjan family was very devoted to the Armenian community, and this was evident in all aspects of their lives. Megerdich and John would take Armenian-language lessons from their uncle who was an accomplished language teacher. The family was active in the St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church of Indian Orchard and all its related organizations. It was in “the Orchard” that Megerdich began his lifelong involvement with the Armenian community including the church, Armenian Youth Federation (AYF), and the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) Dashnaktsutiun.

While devoting his time to the local community, the AYF Convention nominated and elected Megerdich to serve on its Central Executive in Boston. It was here that he ably served his national community and where, most importantly, he met his future wife and life partner, Sandra Varadian. The couple married in 1980 and was blessed with three children, Antranig, Melkon, and Ani. In 2013, Antranig and his wife Melineh blessed them with a grandson, Ara.

In his early years, Megerdich served the St. Gregory Church as an acolyte and later was ordained as a deacon. As a young adult, he worked in the restaurant business. He later had the calling to further devote himself to the church and attended the Armenian Theological Seminary at Antelias, Lebanon, to pursue religious studies. Upon his arrival in Lebanon during the civil war, Catholicos Khoren I of blessed memory, who admired Megerdich’s determination and devotion, praised him by saying, “while much of the population is trying to flee the country, it’s commendable that you came to study with us.”

After graduating from the seminary, Megerdich continued his religious education with Rev. Torkom Hagopian at St. Stephen’s Armenian Church in Watertown, Mass. In 1982, he was ordained as Reverend Khatchig and assigned to serve at Holy Cross Armenian Church in Troy, N.Y.

In 1998, he and Sandra moved the family to Rhode Island to be closer to their families. Megerdich completed a degree in business and had a career in finance with Bank of America and H&R Block.

Megerdich loved his family, friends, and community. His compassion and dedication to helping others was his mission in life. Keeping an overnight vigil at the side of his father-in-law’s casket at Sts. Vartanantz to honor Mal’s memory was a testament of his devotion to his family.

The Providence “Kristapor” Gomideh was a passion of Megerdich’s, and where he enjoyed serving the community and participating with his family. He had the pleasure of serving with his wife Sandra, brother John and sister-in-law Taline, children Anto, Melkon, and Ani, and niece Nareh. During this past year, a very proud moment for Megerdich was serving as Godfather to his daughter Ani, niece Nareh, and Hrag Arakelian on the occasion of their induction to the ranks of the Dashnaktsutiun.

He was very proud of his wife and three children. Megerdich would recount each of their accomplishments and the faith he had in them.

His faith in God and love for people never wavered during his illness. While in hospice, he offered his prayers for those who visited him. His message to visitors during his final weeks was, “I am at peace when I am listening to Armenian hymns (sharagans) and am in the presence of the ARF Coat of Arms (zeenaneshan), and the Armenian tri-color flag (yerakouyn troshag).”

Megerdich will be missed by every life that he touched and his legacy will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace.

His funeral was held on July 14 at Woodlawn Funeral Home, 600 Pontiac Ave., Cranston, R.I., followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. in Sts. Vartanantz Church, 402 Broadway in Providence. Burial will be at North Burial Ground in Providence. Memorial donations may be made to “Sts. Vartanantz Church Endowment Fund” or “ARF Kristapor Gomideh” at 402 Broadway, Providence, RI 02909. Please visit the website and share memories at www.WoodlawnGattone.com.

The post Megerdich ‘Mike’ Megerdichian (1957-2015) appeared first on Armenian Weekly.

Arax Kesdekian Suny (1917- 2015)

Arax Suny died peacefully in Flourtown, Pa., at the age of 98. She died from old age with no underlying illness. The mother of Ronald Grigor Suny, Professor of History at the University of Michigan, and Linda Suny Myrsiades, Professor of Comparative Literature at West Chester University, she is survived by four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Born Arax Kesdekian to Avedis Kesdekian and Azniv Tashjian Kesdekian in Philadelphia on March 17, 1917, she grew up in an Armenian household and Armenian community. Her first language was Armenian, and she remembered that she came home crying from her first day in school because no one understood her. Her father was a tailor and her mother an accomplished dressmaker. Avedis was a dedicated member of the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) all his life, and both of her parents were faithful parishioners of Saint Sahag-Saint Mesrop Armenian Apostolic Church.

A graduate of West Philadelphia High School, she briefly worked for Bell Telephone before meeting and marrying Gurgen (George) Suny, the son of the Armenian musician Grikor Mirzoyan Suni. After Suni’s death in 1939, George took over his father’s chorus, in which Arax sang as an alto. For several decades they were the heart and soul of the Suni Chorus in Philadelphia.

Arax partnered with her younger brother James in a dry cleaning store in Morton, Pa., but most of her life was spent raising her family. She was the acknowledged matriarch of the large Kesdekian clan, and her home was always open to the extended family and their friends. An accomplished cook, she was an ambassador for Armenian hospitality.

Arax was the older sister of theater director Mesrop Kesdekian, Victoria Kazanjian, and James Kesdekian. Her grandchildren are Yani Myrsiades, Leni Myrsiades, Sevan Siranoush Suni, and Anoush Tamar Suni. Her great-grandchildren are Charles John Myrsiades, Dean Myrsiades, Regan Heiner, Jacob Conrad, and Nathan Conrad.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Sahag-St. Mesrop Armenian Church in Wynnwood.

Thomas Nishan Toumajan (1938-201Thomas Nishan Toumajan was born at Harvard University Hospital in Cambridge, Mass., on Sept. 26, 1938. He was the oldest of three sons of Armenian immigrants, Nishan Thomas Toumajan and Louise Adjemian Toumajan. He graduated from the highly regarded New Lincoln High School in New York City. Tom, or Tommy, as he was popularly called, pursued an education in broadcasting at Emerson College in Boston, graduating as the Outstanding Broadcaster of his 1960 graduating class. He returned to New York to work at WOR Radio and at the New York Herald Tribune. Tommy landed a marketing and public relations job with Jack Wodell Associates, a position which took him from New York to Los Angeles, where he encountered famous writers and actors, and finally to San Francisco, where he would eventually depart from the entertainment world and assume a less “taxing” position as a taxi driver. It was in the City by the Bay that he shared a home for decades with JoAnn Green and brought up a son, Jerry Green. After JoAnn’s premature passing, Tommy moved to Central Florida to live with his younger brother Bartev. He worked there as a courtesy driver for Jack Yeoman’s Ford dealership. After Bartev’s untimely death, Tommy joined his youngest brother Dickran and sister-in-law Anahit in Detroit, where he lived the last three years of his life before his passing on Oct. 21, 2014, only seven weeks after being diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. His remains have been transferred to San Francisco, a city he loved with a passion, as well as to Eugene, Ore., where his son resides.

Tommy was an avid reader, particularly of newspapers and magazines. He was a loyal subscriber to the weekly magazines, the New Yorker and Sports Illustrated, and to the monthly New York magazine. He also enjoyed reading the the New York Times, particularly the Sunday edition. Tommy loved the challenge of crossword puzzles, which enabled him to build a formidable vocabulary. He was well versed in many fields and, thus, could carry on friendly and often lengthy conversations with people from different walks of life. He was a kind, gentle, and considerate human being who cherished his family and friends on the East and West Coasts.

Tommy is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Jerry and Kelly Green, grandchildren Brooklyn and McKenna Green, brother and sister-in-law, Dickran and Anahit Toumajan, nieces and nephews Annette Burrow, Stephen Toumajan, Suzanne Barker, Mihran, Armen and Ani Toumajan, cousins Sevan (Jutta) Minasian and Nadine (Elie) Sidawi, and many relatives and friends.

Memorial services, attended by many friends and family members, were held for Thomas Nishan Toumajan at St. John Armenian Church of San Francisco on Feb. 14, 2015, and at St. Gregory the Enlightener Armenian Church of White Plains, N.Y., on Aug. 9, 2015. Friends of Thomas Nishan Toumajan are welcome to extend their condolences to family members by e-mailing aa0804@wayne.edu.

Vahakn Hovnanian (Photo: Photolure)

Armenian businessman and benefactor Vahakn Hovnanian passed away on Aug. 31, at the age of 83, Hovnanian International announced.

Vahakn Stephan Hovnanian was a successful businessman, real estate developer, and philanthropist. His companies have developed more than 5,000 homes and several commercial properties throughout the United States.

In 1959, Hovnanian and his brothers formed the Hovnanian Brothers Corporation. Together, they developed thousands of homes in New Jersey, until going their respective ways 10 years later. In 1969, Hovnanian organized his own real estate development company, Hovbilt, Inc., which in the ensuing years developed many successful and award-winning residential communities. With growth came diversification and the formation of several affiliated companies under the name of V.S. Hovnanian Group, Inc., which included Adelphia Water Company, Adelphia Sewer Company, Hovnanian Realty, Clear Title Agency, and Grandview Cable. In 1985, Vahakn and his son Shant pioneered a multi-faceted broadband telecommunications company by establishing CellularVision, Inc., which later became SpeedUS, Inc.

A lover of “all things Armenian,” Hovnanian dedicated himself to supporting and preserving Armenian culture and heritage, and revitalizing the independent Republic of Armenia. Hovnanian, together with his wife, Hasmig, played a prominent role in promoting the educational, religious, and cultural needs of the Armenian community in the northeastern United States. The couple has also been heavily involved in charity work.

During the 1960’s, Hovnanian served as the president of the Board of Trustees for Sts. Vartanantz Armenian Apostolic Church in Ridgefield, N.J. He initiated the celebration of Armenian holidays on their precise day rather than on the closest Sunday, designating Sts. Vartanantz as one of the first Armenian churches in the United States to follow this tradition.

In 1969, Vahakn and Hasmig Hovnanian were honored for their efforts with a Knighthood in the Order of the Great House of Cilicia and as a Lady of the Great House of Cilicia, respectively, by His Holiness Khoren I, Catholicos of Cilicia. In further service to the Armenian Church, Hovnanian served as an executive member of the Board of Directors for the Eastern Prelacy of the Armenian Apostolic Church of America from 1973-77. During that period he also served as a U.S. national delegate to the World Council of the Armenian Church’s Cilician Catholicosate in Lebanon.

One of the greatest achievements of Mr. and Mrs. Hovnanian was the founding of the Armenian School in New Milford, N.J., in 1976, which was renamed in 1984 to the Hovnanian School in their honor. On the occasion of the school’s 10^th anniversary, Vahakn Hovnanian was named prince of the Armenian Apostolic Church by His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of the Holy See of Cilicia, in Antelias Lebanon (later His Holiness Karekin I, Catholicos of All Armenians of the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin).

In keeping with his commitment to education, Hovnanian raised hundreds of thousands of dollars in the aftermath of the 1988 earthquake in Armenia; he contributed the funds to His Holiness Vasken I Catholicos of All Armenians, to build a new school in the earthquake zone of Spitak. Since 1992, he and his wife have been major benefactors of the Hovnanian School’s sister school in Armenia, the Anania Shirakatsy Gemaran in Nork Massif.

Hovnanian received numerous awards throughout his career that highlighted his commitment to the Armenian community.

Believing that tourism would boost Armenia’s economy, Hovnanian insisted on making tourism development a top priority, and successfully lobbied the U.S. government to contribute to it. In May 2000, the Republic of Armenia chartered the Armenian Tourism Development Agency (ATDA), which was funded by USAID, Hovnanian himself, and the Armenian government. ATDA has raised international awareness about Armenia as a world class tourism destination.

In 1995, the Hovnanians endorsed Armenia’s participation in the Venice Biennale and initiated fundraising for the first Armenian Pavilion. They organized and chaired an international ball held in Venice where more than 250 Armenians from around the world gathered to support Armenia’s entry into the international arts scene. While planning this event, they initiated the Kantz Foundation to support young aspiring Armenian artists. Through the Kantz Foundation and the Vahakn and Hasmig Hovnanian Foundation, they have supported more than 100 young artists from Armenia and outside in their pursuit of prominent careers in the fine and performing arts.

In May 2000, Hovnanian founded the Sayat Nova Award to stimulate and provide financial support to songwriters and composers of Armenia. In May 2002, the Vahakni Award was initiated to inspire and support other artists in fine and performing arts.

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The ARF Eastern Region Central Committee mourns the death of philanthropist Vahakn Hovnanian, a supporter of the Hairenik Association, and the Hairenik and Armenian Weekly newspapers. The Central Committee extends its condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Hovnanian—his passing is a loss to the Armenian nation.