In Memoriam: Varant Hagopian, 84
Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan and the Religious and Executive Councils announce with sorrow the passing of Dr. Varant Hagopian, a life-long dedicated supporter of the Armenian Church, a Knight of Cilicia, and former member and vice chairman of the Eastern Prelacy’s Executive Council. Dr. Hagopian entered into his eternal rest yesterday, January 3, in Massachusetts. He was 84 years old.
A National Funeral officiated by His Grace Bishop Anoushavan Tanielian, Vicar of the Eastern Prelacy, took place Tuesday, January 8, at St. Stephen’s Armenian Apostolic Church in Watertown, Massachusetts.
Dr. Hagopian served for many years as a member of the Prelacy’s Executive Council during the tenures of Archbishop Karekin Sarkissian (1974-77) and Archbishop Mesrob Ashjian (1978-98). He served as vice chairman of the Council from 1985-88. He was awarded the Knight of Cilicia insignia in recognition of his service by His Holiness Karekin II, Catholicos of Cilicia (later Catholicos of All Armenians).
He is survived by his loving wife, Ruth, and their children, a son Gary Hagopian and his wife Diane; two daughters, Melanie Hagopian Asadourian and her husband Alan, and Liza Hagopian; a daughter Nanine Hagopian McCarthy predeceased him; two sisters Anna Demurjian and Mary Bukujian; and six grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
We pray All-Merciful God to receive his soul in eternal peace and bliss.
Archbishop Oshagan Choloyan, Prelate
Religious and Executive Councils
Armenian Apostolic Church of America
Eastern Prelacy
January 4, 2013
