Obituary of Rafik Ghazaryan

RAFIK GHAZARYAN Latham- Rafik Mkhitari Ghazaryan, age 78, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 2, 2020 in his home surrounded by his family. Rafik was born in Hoktemberyan, Armenia in a family of 8 sisters and brothers. He moved to Yerevan, Armenia, for university and met his wife, Aida Tadevosyan, there. They created a strong family together. He was a historian by profession and worked most of his life at the Ministry of Education of Armenia, where he was one of the pioneers of licensing of private universities. After their children moved to the U.S. in order to create a better future for their children, Rafik and Aida followed suit. No matter where in the world he was, he was a proud Mshetsi and that's how he raised his successors. Rafik has always been a devoted family man and his greatest joys were being surrounded by his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchild, and extended family. He was known for his booming laugh, generosity, strength, grit, and, most importantly, dedication to his family. He was always there for all of his relatives and friends. He was the Godfather of five families and the "tamada" of many, many weddings. He was widely respected and loved. Rafik lived a full life and told incredible stories, which will continue living in us. Asdvadz Hokin Lousavore (May God Enlighten His Soul). He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Aida Tadevosyan. He is the incredible father of two children, Lusine (Eduard Aghayan) and Tigran (Nana Gabrielyan). He is the cherished and most doting Papik of Mariam, Bago, Aida, and Ella. He is the sweetest Mets-Papik of Arev. He is survived by 4 of his siblings, Vardush, Seroj, Julik, and Lilik. He predeceased 3 of his siblings, Valod, Rom, and Melan. In light of the current situation, funeral services will be only for immediate family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter's Armenian Apostolic Church in memory of Rafik M. Ghazaryan. For directions, information or to light a memory for the family please visit www.dufresneandcavanaugh.com.