Obituary: Richard K. Garibian (1929-2010)

WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass.—Richard K. Garibian of West Springfield passed away on Sat., Nov. 20, 2010 on his 81st birthday with his family by his side.

He was born in Baghdad, Iraq, as the son of Kevork and Vartanoosh Garibian. Richard attended Baghdad College, which was run by the American Jesuit Fathers. After graduation, he worked in Kirkuk for a British oil company. Later, he worked in the American Embassy in Baghdad for several years, where he met a gentleman who helped him get to the United States. Here, he attended Indiana Technical College and Purdue University, from which he received his BS in electrical engineering. Richard worked for Northeast Utilities as an engineer and received his professional engineering license. Richard was a member of St. Gregory’s Armenian Church, a member of the West Springfield Elks, and the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF).

Richard had a love for music like no other; he played the banjo as well as the piano with great passion. He lived for his family and could never do enough for anyone.

He is survived by his loving wife Margaret (Bagian) Garibian; a son Kevin Garibian, and his two children Teah and Gabrielle Garibian; a daughter Ani Sheehan, and her husband Peter of Southwick, and their children Elizabeth and Ali. He also leaves behind Dianna Goldberg, who he considered a daughter; a brother Sarkis Garibian and his wife Mary of Wilbraham, Mass.; and a brother Ara Garibian and his wife Odette, of Florida; along with many nieces and nephews.

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