Sarmanian, Jack of Wells and formerly Edgecomb, Maine and Lexington and Watertown, Massachusetts, September 11, 2021. Beloved husband of June “Sandy” (Sandell) Sarmanian. Devoted father of David Sarmanian and his wife Donna, and daughter Julie Sarmanian and her late husband Peter Petrole.
Cherished grandfather of Nicholas Sarmanian and Samuel Sarmanian. Loving brother of Esther Stepanian and her husband Stephen, JoAnn Janjigian and her husband Dick, and the late Peter Sarmanian and his wife Agnes. Known as Uncle Hagop to his family, Jack is also survived by many loving cousins, nieces and nephews. Jack will also be missed by a wide circle of friends, from his lifelong Watertown pals, to fellow Sheepscot River boaters and beyond.
With Armenian music playing in the background and the fullness of love permeating the atmosphere, Jack passed away in the embrace of his surrounding family.
Jack dedicated his life to the betterment of others, professionally and personally. With a doctorate in education and a master’s degree in social work, Jack was on the vanguard of mental and behavioral health clinical practice and systems management, with a reach from local organizations to the federal government. With a commitment to his profession, he wrote prolifically, lectured extensively and taught the next generation at Tufts Medical School, University of Massachusetts, Boston and Smith College.
Along with the love of his life, his wife Sandy, he was an antique dealer. He specialized in antique tools and was sought out for his expertise, earning his trade name, The Tool Man.
Jack’s belief in civic service led to his 20-year tenure as a Lexington Town Meeting member, where he spearheaded advocacy for the development of the Lexington Town Track, which remains in widespread use. Upon Jack and Sandy making Edgecomb, Maine their permanent residence, Jack integrated into local government, eventually leading the town as Chairman for the Board of Selectmen. His leadership’s imprint permeates the community, from the Fire Department, to the roads, to the professionalization of town management to assure longevity for its citizens. As an American Red Cross Disaster Mental Health Worker, Jack helped victims of natural and civilian disasters as well as our veterans.
Dr. Jack Sarmanian lived what he believed. His was a deep impact for the betterment of countless lives and for the strength and joy of his family.
Funeral service at Saint James Armenian Church, 465 Mount Auburn Street, Watertown on Friday, September 17 at 11:00 a.m. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Visiting hours at the Aram Bedrosian Funeral Home, 558 Mount Auburn Street, Watertown on Thursday, September 16 from 5 – 8 PM. Interment at Mount Auburn Cemetery, Cambridge.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Midcoast Humane, Edgecomb Campus, Animal Care Facility, 27 Atlantic Highway, Edgecomb, ME 04556.
Guest Contributor
I have wonderful childhood memories of Jack while growing up on
Samoset road in Woburn, visiting in Lexington and Wiscasset,ME. Jack was a soft spoken caring man I will forever cherish memories with him and his wonderful family. Rest In Peace Jack, love you,
Lynne (Girolamo) Chisholm & family.
Thank you kindly Lynne.
May my Uncle Hagop truly rest in piece, grace and love. The same he gave to all he knew. All I know is that of all of the adults in my family, after my father died. it was my Uncle Hagop who always tried to talk to me as a person not a child and showed true compassion to me as a troubled adolescent. In difficult times, you can alway remember those who make you feel loved and guided by a shining light. May the lord bless aunt Sandy, David and Julie. May the lords countenance shine upon them and give them piece!!
Thank you so much Scott.
Uncle Hagop was always there for you, no matter what. As a kid I remember him bringing me stockpiles of baseball cards for my collection. He would drive down from Maine because he cared, and he made you want to try harder and be better. He was selfless; in every aspect of the word. The world was a better place with him in it, and I’ll miss him.
Thank you Daniel.
Mr. Sarmanian “Jack” was a second father to me growing up with my good buddy David on Samoset Road in Woburn, MA. I cherish the memories that I have and share with others as we walk down memory lane ♥ The Sarmanian’s moved to Lexington, MA but our friendship continued sleeping over at each other’s houses, spinning albums, watching TV, playing games with Jack, Sandy & Julie!! I spent many summers in North Edgecomb, ME, boating, sailing, swimming and fishing!! I can go on for ever. RIP IN PEACE Jack you truly made a difference in my life.
Love
Mark J Girolamo & Family
Thank you Mark.
Jack was a great man. I truly enjoyed all our interactions over the years. I was genuinely sadded when I heard he had passed.
Oh my goodness.. i remember many of things he taught me when he visited NewJersey for training in Corrections. He was a smart guy and studied and said a lot of things this country needs to use in solving the many issues within the criminal justice system.
Just came across this. Jack hired me at A.C.I.D. In Malden in the early 1980’s. That began a 16 year career for me with the agency which Jack basically founded and nurtured like one of his children. His agency helped thousands overcome substance abuse and related issues. He was a good man.