Harry "Butch" Surabian

Harry "Butch" Surabian, 85, passed away peacefully, Monday, October 27, 2008, in his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Harry was born in Worcester, MA on September 16, 1923, son of the late Solomon and Mary (Harootunian) Surabian. He now joins his beloved wife, Annie (Kustigian) Surabian, who passed away in 1988.

Harry leaves his five children, whom he cherished and lived for every day, son Sarkis Surabian and his wife Thomasine; son Solomon Surabian and his fiancée Shirley; daughter Linda A. Michalak, all of Worcester; son Andrew Surabian and his wife Joanne of Shrewsbury; and daughter Nancy A. Donovan of Worcester, with whom he lived, and her fiancé Joe of Leicester.

Harry leaves his fifteen grandchildren, who always put a smile on their Papa's face; Harry, Stacey and Marc Surabian, Lisa Rogers and her husband Dana, Tina Georgopoulos and her husband Steve, Michael Surabian and his wife Jamie, Jennifer Bachour and her husband Joe, Melissa and Tommy John Michalak, Michael, Andrew, John, and Anthony Surabian, and Melinda and Joey Donovan.

Harry also leaves ten great-grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, friends and loved ones. He leaves his daughter-in-law, Linda Surabian and sons-in-law, Thomas Michalak and Joseph Donovan, Jr., all of Worcester. Harry is survived by brothers, Martin Surabian of Craigville and Andrew Surabian and his wife Serpouhie and a sister, Surapi Bezdegian, all of Worcester. He leaves his sisters-in-law, Melina Shemeligian and her husband Bob, Rose Simonian, Valerie Kustigian, and Carol Surabian. His infant grandson, Joseph Surabian; brother Stephen Surabian, and sisters Juliette Grillo and Margaret Surabian all predeceased him.

Harry grew up in Worcester, MA where he attended Boys Trade School. He entered the United States Armed Forces on February 23, 1943, serving in the Army-Air Corps and was a member of the 303rd Bombardment Squadron. He served in the Asia Pacific Theater during World War II. Harry was a participant in the landing force in the Invasion of Okinawa on April 1, 1945. He served his country proudly and will always be a hero to his adoring family.

Harry and Annie were married in the Armenian Church of Our Saviour, on Laurel Street, on August 11, 1946. Harry worked as a tailor alongside his father at their family business, Twin Brothers Tailors, on Laurel Street in Worcester until 1965. He went on to work at the Worcester Post Office as a clerk until 1972. During that time, Harry and his wife Annie also owned and operated Belmont Tailors and Cleaners, 108 Belmont St. Worcester, located in "Butch & Annie's Plaza," named in their honor. Harry was the tailor there until his retirement in 2000, in addition he has held the position of Chairman of the Surabian Realty Company since 1990.

Harry loved being around his family for daily gatherings, holidays, and spending time at their office. He thoroughly enjoyed his work as a tailor and interacting with his customers. Harry was loved by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He enjoyed watching the game shows, sports, and listening to Armenian music. Harry's children were the light of his life and his bright blue eyes and smile were sure to light up theirs. He was always present and made a lasting impression at his grandchildren's special events, whether it was a birthday, graduation, wedding, or sporting event.

Harry was a member of The Armenian Church of Our Saviour, The Armenian American Veterans Club and The Disabled American Veterans.

The family would like to thank Reverend Father Aved Terzian for his continued love and support, and UMass Memorial Hospice for their exceptional care.

The funeral will be held on Thursday October 30, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at the Armenian Church of Our Saviour, 87 Salisbury Street Worcester, MA 01609. Burial will be in Hope Cemetery, Worcester. Calling hours will be held TODAY, Wednesday October 29th from 5 to 8 p.m. at Nordgren Memorial Chapel, 300 Lincoln Street, Worcester. A Dahngark Service will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Armenian Church of Our Saviour, Worcester. For directions and online condolences please visit:

NordgrenMemorial

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