Dear Editor,
It is always difficult to lose a public servant in our Armenian community. It’s even harder if such an individual was as multifaceted and dedicated to his church and organizations as Dr. Varant Hagopian.
A respected ophthalmologist and one of Boston Magazine’s top eye doctors, Dr. Hagopian never possessed any pretensions of grandeur, yet he was grand in his own humble way.
Whether it was his role with the Armenian Prelacy or the Friends of Armenian Culture Society (FACS), Dr. Hagopian was a visionary who sought to keep his people united and strong.
Whether he did it through generous philanthropy or rolled up his sleeves, he never settled for mediocrity.
My best impression of the man was not on some dais accepting an award or the many titles he held throughout his active life. That is not what personified his character.
Instead, it was moments at Symphony Hall when he was surrounded by members of his family, exposing his children and grandchildren to fine music. He was truly inside his element at Armenian Night at the Pops, served that particular venue over six decades.
His passion for classical music and the Armenian performing arts made him a somewhat inveterate follower. To say he was a consummate practitioner in both the medical and concert stage is putting it mildly.
No doubt, the organization would never have prospered and persevered had it not been for his expertise and insight as a valued committee member and catalyst. He served on the planning committee and delighted in seeing his efforts utilized on stage with some of the world’s greatest musicians and conductors.
The devotion he rendered to his wife Ruth and members of his family remains his biggest legacy.
Tom Vartabedian
Haverhill, Mass.
Tom Vartabedian
Latest posts by Tom Vartabedian (see all)
- Vartabedian: My Final Column - November 13, 2016
- A Hat to Match Any Occasion - October 19, 2016
- More Smiles Keep the Frowns Away - October 12, 2016
Be the first to comment