His Eminence Archbishop Anoushavan Tanielian, Prelate, and the Religious and Executive Councils of the Eastern Prelacy learned with sorrow of the passing of Haroutioun “Harry” Ishkhanian (Kasparian), 92, passed away on November 29, 2021, in Mt. St. Mary’s Hospital (Lewinston, New York).
Born in Aleppo, Syria, he was the son of the late Kevork and Hripsime (Chamlian) Ishkhanian. Young Haroutioun was raised in Syria and came to the United States with $26 dollars in his pocket, without knowing a word of English. He settled in Niagara Falls, NY, where he would meet the love of his life, Valentine (Kishmoian) at a church dance. They married six weeks later at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in 1956. Mrs. Ishkhanian predeceased her husband in 2009.
At the age of 12, Hagop began his lengthy career as a talented jeweler. He worked at the former Jaffe Jewelers in Niagara Falls and Benstock Ring Manufacturing in Buffalo for 25 years prior to his retirement.
Hagop was a longtime member of St. Hagop’s Church where he sang in the choir and served as Chairman of the Board for many years. Hagop was recently presented with an award by Archbishop Anoushavan, Prelate, for his dedication to the church for over 60 years.
In his leisure time, he enjoyed cooking, spending time with his friends at the Niagara Falls Outlet Mall and traveling to Tampa Bay, FL, to visit with his daughter, Anna and her family. He also enjoyed watching sports.
Mr. Ishkhanian is survived by his children, Georgette Otabachian, Kevork Ishkhanian, Mihran Ishkhanian and Anna (Eric) Brunelle; his grandchildren, Haroutig, Hagop, James, Erica, Rebekah, and was predeceased by his beloved granddaughter, Nicole Marie and his brother, Archpriest Fr. Armen Ishkhanian. He is also survived by five great-grandchildren, his nephew, Kevork Ishkhanian and his niece, Roupina Farra.
Archbishop Anoushavan and the Religious and Lay Councils extend their condolences to Mr. Ishkhanian’s family members and loved ones. May God illuminate his soul. Memorial offerings may be made to St. Hagop Armenian Apostolic Church.