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George Keverian Obituary

KEVERIAN, Honorable George Former Speaker of The House of Representatives of Commonwealth of Massachusetts passed peacefully at his home in Everett, March 6, 2009. Beloved son of the late Eliza and Nazar Keverian. Devoted brother of Jack Keverian and his wife Dorothy. Uncle of George T. Keverian and his wife Diane, Kenneth M. Keverian and his wife Dorota and Lisann Dillon and her husband Douglas. Great uncle of Niari, Hagop, Ani and Lori Keverian; Katrina, Tanya and Kristine Keverian and Ryan, Kevin, Michael and Kelsey Dillon. Also survived by numerous loving relatives and friends. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend the following. Visitation periods will be held at Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church, 145 BrattIe Street, Cambridge on Tuesday, March 10 from 3-8 p.m. On Wednesday, March 11, there will be an Official Memorial Remembrance Ceremony at the State House in the House Chamber at 12 noon, followed by The Laying in State in Memorial Hall, State House, from 1 - 4 p.m. The public is invited. Funeral service at Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church, 145 Brattle Street, Cambridge on Thursday, March 12 at 11:00 a.m. Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend. Memorial gifts may be made to the Eliza Keverian Charitable Foundation, c/o Bank of America, 100 Federal Street, Boston, MA 02110. The Honorable George Keverian served the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for over 50 years. Interment at Glenwood Cemetery, Everett. Arrangements by the Aram Bedrosian Funeral Home, WATERTOWN.

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Published by Boston Globe from Mar. 8 to Mar. 9, 2009.

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H V

March 22, 2019

I feel bad that I just learned this. Condolences to the entire family. He was a nice guy.

Dianne Zerigian Lees

March 17, 2009

I knew George for only a short time. Being Armenian we had some very memorable conversations. He was a very kind and caring person. I will miss him.

Mamie

March 15, 2009

To the Keverian family,
How lucky we are to have loved someone so much to whom it hurts so much to say "goodbye"...
Your brother, uncle and greatuncle will be sorely missed by the entire Commonwealth.
Rest easy, Mr. Speaker.
Our love goes with you.

Doris Powers

March 12, 2009

RIP Mr. Speaker--You were alway
a royal straight flush. Thank you for
all your help.

March 12, 2009

To the Keverian Family:
Speaker Keverian did not hesitate to come to the aid of people in his community. I am deeply appreciative of all he did to support the people of this state. May he rest in peace.

Papa Gino's

March 11, 2009

Rep. Keverian, we will miss you as a longtime customer, more importantly as a friend.

DOLORES GUERRIERO

March 11, 2009

GEORGE WAS A GREAT MAN WENT TO SCHOOL WITH HIM IN EVERETT GRADUATED WITH HIM IN 1949. DOLORES (DEFELICE) GUERRIERO.

Dolan Family

March 11, 2009

Our sincere condolences go out to the entire Keverian family, and our wishes for peace and comfort during this time of sorrow.

MaryAnne Masucci

March 11, 2009

To the Keverian Family,
Please accept my sincerest symapthy.
Mr. Keverian was a good and kind man. He was never too busy to help anyone who asked, myself included.
He was and is Everett's greatest asset and a true friend to all. He will be greatly missed.
Thank you, George.

Frank Paghera

March 11, 2009

George thanks for all you have done for all of us in the city of Everett.
You will be missed by many.
The Paghera Family

Nick and Maria D'Angelo

March 10, 2009

Our deepest sympathy to all of the Keverian family

Bob Semonian

March 10, 2009

Especially as a Armenian American I tip my hat to the gentleman George Keverian who rose to the ranks to become the Speaker of the Massachusetts House. He was the only person to defeat a sitting Speaker in the history of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Not only was he a learned stateman but he was also well known for his wit.
May he rest in peace.
Bob Semonian

Stefano Acierno & Family

March 10, 2009

To the Keverian Family,
Please accept our most heartfelt sympathies for your loss. We will miss George.

Brian Hartnett

March 10, 2009

To the Keverian family,
please accept my deepest and most sincere sympathy. My two older brothers (Dick & Kieran) knew George as a high school friend, because of this I was readily but happily volunteered to do much leg work for Mr. Keverian's campaigns. Even though I was a young teen Mr. Keverian always treated me with the same resect he showed all the other adults. Now, fifty years later, the name Keverian will stop me in my tracks. Mr. Speaker was true friend of the youth of Everett. I will never him. May God Bless.

The Gover Family

March 10, 2009

A small story about Mr. Speaker; in 1987, when the administration at Fernald was cutting back services for my sister, I started making phone calls to state and congressional officials, but many never bothered to return the call. One call I made, however, was not only returned, but provided my sister with everything she needed.... and let me tell you, the superintendent was much more polite to me and far more reasonable for having had a nice chat with Mr. Speaker. And who were we? No one. At that point in time, I hadn't met Speaker Keverian personally, and my family wasn't political or known in the city. I will never forget this man's kindess, his integrity, and innate goodness. He was a true public servant.

He was also known for his gift with a pen. He wrote such wonderful thank you and congratulatory notes in a very fine, cursive style.

Mr. Speaker was also very proud of his campaigns. He once told me a story about how he campaigned in Everett by taking photos of every house in the city, with a theme "from my house to yours." It was a great success, he won the election, and relished the retelling of that story every time.

God bless and keep you, Mr. Speaker. My family will never forget you and your tireless efforts on behalf of your constituents.

Luigi and Angela Acierno

March 10, 2009

Our sincerest condolences to the Keverian family. George was a caring person, a devoted politician and a true friend. He will be deeply missed.

Trina Malatian

March 9, 2009

Our sincerest condolences to the Keverian family. We are so proud to have known him. This wonderful, warm, and caring man will be missed. God Bless

william roccia

March 9, 2009

I have been in florida for 30 yrs,but I will never forget our trips up RT.93 going to rockingham.There was always bobby h, bob s, butchie,george,artie z,& myself billy R & numerous others. All we did was laugh going & coming like high school kids Great memories will miss you george.

Joseph LaRusso

March 9, 2009

George: thanks for the memories and
thanks for your time.
God Bless
Joe LaRusso

State Senator Tom Kennedy

March 9, 2009

It is with the utmost sincerity that I express my deep and heartfelt sympathy at the passing of a great man and a marvelous public servant.

I am proud to have been an early supporter of George Keverian's quest for election to the Office of Speaker.

All of the fine words and tributes that others are expressing are more than appropriate. His legacy is already well established in the history of the Massachusetts House of Representatives. For those of us, whose lives he has touched in a myriad of remarkable ways, his memory will forever be held dear.

The good Lord is sure to grant him a rich reward for ALL his acts kindness and goodness to others.

State Senator Tom Kennedy - Brockton (Former long-time Rep.)

Karen Zimmerman

March 9, 2009

This is a man that has always done so much for the people of Everett,he will be missed

Cynthia Barsamian

March 9, 2009

Jack and Dorothy--- Our deepest sympathies to you and the Keverian families---- We share in your sadness.

Artie and Cynthia Barsamian

Beth

March 9, 2009

Mr. Speaker,
You will be missed and well remembered as a gentle man and a true gentleman in service to the Commonwealth. You possessed a rare warmth and charm as you cared for your fellow citizens. As we carry on in your name, may we make you proud.

Richard I. Clayman

March 9, 2009

My sincere condolences---Richy Clayman from Chelsea

Thomas Hegarty

March 9, 2009

"My deepest sympathies to the members of the Keverian family!"

Barbara Anderson

March 9, 2009

As a taxpayer activist during the speakership of George Keverian, I want everyone to know what is rarely reported: that his style of leadership saved the commonwealth in the late 80's, when it faced a major fiscal crisis. He picked the most talented legislators to chair his committees, then allowed them to lead in their areas of expertise, delegating his power as a good speaker should and encouraging natural leaders to want to serve. His Democrats worked with Republicans on cuts and reforms; all their efforts weren't enough and we eventually had major tax increases, but it would have been much worse without him and his "soft leadership". Rest in peace, Mr. Speaker; I for one have missed you for almost twenty years. Barbara Anderson

Anne P. Umana

March 9, 2009

TO KNOW HIM WAS TO LOVE HIM

Intelligent, affable, humble, trusting, competitive, sweet, selfless, steadfast, loyal, patient, humorous, atruistic, caring, sophisticated, and above all humane.....

George had a captivating personality, a wonderful voice, an incredible eye for detail, beautiful handwriting..he could interpret complex issues and translate into easy to understand facts...He had an almost pure almost pure altruistic comittment. When George was in your corner, he was there only for good reason...your cause was good.
His beneficense was limitless...and rarely saw the light of day... for he preferred that it be known only to those who could speak first hand..

The great man from Everett was beloved by all who knew him and that love was returned...

My condolences to the entire Kevarian family...George's humanity was endearing ...we were all enriched by knowing him....

Janice Gorman

March 9, 2009

I will miss your smiling face and friendly manner. Rest in peace.

Mike Rea

March 9, 2009

We have lost a great man. George was many things to many people. He was my friend, my mentor, and my Speaker. He opened the Massachusetts House and let the sun shine in. His devotion to his Mother should be an example to us all.
He will be missed by legions.

Hector Tundidor

March 9, 2009

My sincere condolences to the Family. George was a great person, he gave and helped anyone who needed help. he will be missed.
Hector Tundidor

Patricia Molle-Forgione

March 9, 2009

Mr. Speaker..George,
You were a man to be respected and in turn you gave respect back. God bless you and all that you did, unselfishly. Everett has lost one of it's heroes but your legacy will always remain in the hearts of many.

Patricia Molle and family

BOB CRAFTS

March 9, 2009

Thank you Mr. Keverian for your tireless efforts to make Everett a better city. You will not be forgotten.

Susan, Kim, Drtad, Deran and Mary Hazarvartian, Bergoudian (Guleserian) Families

March 9, 2009

The entire Keverian Family,
Our families go back many many years and I always here about stories from my mom about getting together, not only as Aintabitis, but the GOOD OLDE DAYS!

Remember we are all born as miracles of GOD and we do things in his ways and we are taken in the same way, as miracles of GOD!

Uncle George had so much he shared with all of us and he certainly will continue to be in our memories, thoughts and hearts for many years to come.

His devotion to friends, family, church, the school that was named after him and of course to all the people of the commonwealth of MA will be missed dearly!

We love you!

CHRISTOPHER HOOPER

March 9, 2009

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Bernard Jackson

March 8, 2009

George and I grew up together in
Everett as neighbors and he became
the brother I never had.
One by one we all depart from the
planet earth on an never ending
journey to that land beyond the sky.
"Dare to be a Daniel
Dare to stand alone
Dare to have a purpose
Dare to make it known"
May the Holy Spirit comfort your family during this most difficult
time. Save me a seat at the
Welcome Table.

Agatha Cardillo

March 8, 2009

Rest in peace Mr Keverian. Our sympathy to your family. But I know a bunch of guys waiting with cards in hand to welcome you into heaven. Thanks you for all your kindness to my family.
The Richard Cardillo Sr. Family

Christine Ellard - Weaver

March 8, 2009

On behalf of the Ellard family, we would like to extend our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers. George will surely be missed by many.

Barbara Collins

March 8, 2009

My friend I will truly miss your kind and friendly ways.May you rest in peace Everett has truly lost one of the greatest politicians as well as friend.My condolisence to Jack and Dorothy and family.With much Love and Admiration.

Jim B

March 8, 2009

One of the many extraordinary things about Speaker George Keverian is that he truly cared about everyone he met: those who had nothing as much as those who occupied positions of power and prestige. The speaker not only cared about his House members, but also about those who served his members. The so-called “little guy” and “little gal.” He cared about our dreams, our goals and our lives. And he kept caring long after he left office. His passing reminds us that often the treasure we seek can be found right in front of us. George Keverian was that treasure. The Commonwealth has suffered a great loss. We will miss his warmth, his caring, and his humanity. May you rest in peace, Mr. Speaker.

John Taglilatela

March 8, 2009

Please be assured that our good friend from the City of Everett will be remembered in our thoughts and prayers. We had many conversations on assessor related issues and George always had a story to tell.

Rest in peace Mr. Speaker...

Arthur McCarthy

March 8, 2009

George, I am sending a message(Warning)to all those poor souls,who think they can play polka,"watch out". Keverian is comming. My sympathies to Jack Keverian and family. Arthur Mccarthy

March 8, 2009

May you rest in peace. God bless you. My sympathies to your family and friends during this difficult time.

Francis Parker

March 8, 2009

Thank you Mr. Speaker for unselfishly giving of yourself to so many. Peace.

Jack T

March 8, 2009

RIP Mr. Speaker and thanks from all the citizens of the Commonwealth!

June Ballentine

March 8, 2009

To Jack and the entire Keverian family: The class of Everett High School, 1949 will always be proud to say we had the speaker in our class and as our main speaker at our graduation. He has been the shining light of Everett and our class and we always were proud to say, "The Speaker graduated with us". Our deepest sympathy to the entire family and know we will never forget the kind man with the wonderful sense of humor. June Ballentine '49

March 8, 2009

George, we love you and are going to miss your wit and and humor. You were always there to help anyone in need. I'm wondering what night you and Tony will pick for card night.
Peggy Serino (Everett,MA)

Donnarose Russian and Family

March 8, 2009

Small Song

Raised up from love by God to call
to peace and trials, noble all
and soaring mighty, meek and small.

Who knows what blessed thing this is
which goes beyond before it gives
the universe of faith it lives?

Time gone, and here, and yet to be,
the joys one soul has yet to see
for time within eternity.

God's love reborn, with grace to bring
the light of hope, this humble thing
to that quiet place where angels sing.

?2003 Donnarose Russian

The Russian and Casarjian Families extend their thoughts, prayers and condolences at this sad time of loss, to the Keverian Family and to all of George's many friends.
"Cousin" George was a beloved friend, a kind neighbor, and devoted public servant. He will be greatly missed.

bill hurley jr

March 7, 2009

Mr. Keverian, I will miss your memory of all the fine things that have made Everett what it was, I remember being a young kid and you drove by Cherry st, you asked us if we wanted to work for the summer, we did and we worked for the dpw of Mass, we made you proud winning the golden broom award, beating every major city in America, and you made us proud by being who you were. One of the best guys representing Everett.If all politicians followed in your footsteps it would be a better place to live, thank you Mr. Keverian

Steven, Delia Steven Jr & Nicholas Tashjian

March 7, 2009

Uncle George you will always be remembered in our hearts and with our family. you were a most kind and wonderful man we will miss you.

Beth

March 7, 2009

Mr. Keverian, May you rest in peace....Everett has lost a genuine, gentle man, you will be fondly remembered, but sadly missed....

Michael DeVito

March 7, 2009

Old Friend:
May the Lord Bless you and keep you;
May the Lord let his Face shine upon you and be gracious to you; and,
May the Lord look upon you kindly and give you peace.

Bob McCarthy, President-PFFM

March 7, 2009

On behalf of the over 12,000 union firefighters of Ma.; I, sincerely, extend to his family and friends; our sincerest condolences and love. Speaker Keverian, an honorary member of the PFFM, was a true and loyal friend and we will be forever grateful for his unstinting,unselfish and dedicated commitment to public service. I am glad that I had the opportunity to talk with him at Speaker DeLeo's swearing in ceremony. May you rest in peace.

NORMA CAPUANO/PARZIALE

March 7, 2009

GEORGE, MR SPEAKER AND MY FRIEND. THANKS FOR EVERYTHING!!
I'LL MISS YOU, MY FAMILY WILL MISS YOU, AND EVERETT WILL MISS YOU. REST IN PEACE.

March 7, 2009

George, you were a wonderful friend and wonderful human being! We will miss you so much. We will always have such grand memories in our hearts of you and the special times we shared. May God rest your sweet spirit and send blessings on your family. With sincere sympathy,
Al and Dot Hart & Family

Marie Caristi

March 7, 2009

Deepest sympathy to Everett's Special K

Terri (Colameta) Morris

March 7, 2009

Mr. Speaker:
You are Everett's home town boy you have and always will be. Your sense of humor is gone but I am sure you will be making them laugh in Heaven, and those card games, I know you will be rounding up everyone from the Village to play them. You will be missed.

serena gibbs

March 7, 2009

we all are sorry for your lose love the entire gibbs family

Richard Barry

March 7, 2009

George, thank you for your lifetime committment to the City of Everett and to the Commonwealth, you served us well. One of many friends, Dick Barry EHS 51....

Paul Kollios

March 7, 2009

Mr. Speaker:
We will miss you in so many ways.
But I can recall one time, where at the behest of residents in the area, you came and saw and decided Rutland Heights Hospital had to remain open to continue serving many disabled and elder clients. Thank you for your concern and compassion.

Dennis Basile

March 7, 2009

It is a sad day in Everett..We lost one of the best guy's ever.. Ty for the yrs of sponsering my hockey teams back in the 80's...you will be missed..

Jane Christoforo-Montenero

March 7, 2009

To My Dear Boss, George.

I am blessed to have known you and your kind heart.
I hope you shake up the card tables in heaven .....
I know you will be our gaurdian angel in City Hall. It was your home away from home.

I will miss our morning office meetings which always consisted of your awesome uplifting personality. You certainly set the tone in the office for all of us. Heaven is lucky to have you now.
George, I will miss you more than you will ever know.
Love you always,

Paul Calderwood

March 7, 2009

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of my entire family we were deeply sadden by your passing. You were a true servant of the people. The caring and compassion you showed to everyone was incrediable. Your humor was unsurpassed. You will be truly missed! RIP

angelo marotta

March 7, 2009

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Former Speaker of the House George Keverian with Peter & Cheryl(Fuccillo) Bagarella

Cheryl & Peter Bagarella

March 7, 2009

George will always hold a VERY special place in our hearts he made arrangements to get a one-day solemnization from the State to be able to due the honor of making us husband & wife on Feb 18, 2006...We are very proud & honored that George Keverian will remain a part of our lives forever!!!

George Agganis

March 7, 2009

To the family my condolence. Mr. Speaker your humor will be missed.
It cannot go without mention of how
we will miss you at the card games.
People golf etc., but to you a good card game was your form of relaxation.

March 7, 2009

Dear george, you will be so missed... Having you in our corner was such a blessing.. and even though you where not the best card player you will always have a place at our table. my family owes you a debt that we can never repay..... D'Amelio's

Neil Rice

March 7, 2009

Rest in Peace Mr Speaker and thank you of your proud service.
We need more of your kind today.
You were a role model of what is means to be a public servant.

George Keefe

March 6, 2009

Mr. Speaker, You will be missed. Your great humor, your hard work and tremendous effort in Improving Everett will never be forgotten. A true Gentleman. It's a sad day in the city, but Heaven is getting one Heck of a Guy.

Barbara Tutelian

March 6, 2009

My Dad's Dry Cleaners(Peerless Cleaners) was in Everett and was of service to Mr Keverian along with others in Everett during the early 70s. Dad was proud that another fellow Armenian worked for the people of Everett with much respect. May Mr Keverian rest in peace.

Ed & Mary Lou Martel

March 6, 2009

You were always a gentleman, respected and admired by all of us here in Everett and across the state. You will be sadly missed and always remembered.

Bob Cardaci

March 6, 2009

Mr. Speaker, simply put you were one of the BEST! God Bless! My condolences to the Keverian Family.

Evelyn Molle Biancardi

March 6, 2009

Mr. Speaker, my mentor, my friend, my biggest influence in politics. You were my father's close friend, and in turn mine. I am heartbroken to learn of your passing. I speak of you often, of how I used to run around in your office as a small child, the Everett parades, and working with you and for you through it all, and how you influenced me in my professional career - you will be missed by so many. Dad will greet you with open arms in Heaven, the chats I'm sure you will have! I will forever miss your pats on the head! May God bless you Mr. Speaker...

March 6, 2009

You were great man. May your soul rest in peace.
God Bless!

Sarkis nad Elsie Sarkisian (Natick)

Jeanne Karvelas

March 6, 2009

You were a kind and warm person. may you rest in peace.

Royal Switzler

March 6, 2009

Mr. Speaker: We battled and battled in the House but may you rest in peace.

Charles A. Boy, Jr.

March 6, 2009

I'm going to miss the laughs. Only wish there could have been more of them.

March 6, 2009

May God raise you upon the wings of eagles, Mr. Speaker! You were a treasure, a good and faithful servant. You will be missed, sir.

Donny Dailey

March 6, 2009

George your friendship will be missed.Its a blessing to have known you.Rest in peace my friend.

A. H.

March 6, 2009

A sad day for Massachusetts, but a happy day for Heaven. God Bless you Mr. K.

Gloria Mastrocola Gavris

March 6, 2009

Mr. Speaker - your spirit, great jokes and service to Everett and the Commonwealth will be missed.
God Bless

March 6, 2009

Mr. Speaker, you will be greatly missed as a true and compassionate gentleman. Rest now in the loving arms of God.

Tommie Taggart

March 6, 2009

Looking forward to seeing you again in God's Kingdom

Mr & Mrs Thomas Catalano

March 6, 2009

My deepest sympathy to all of the Keverian family & friends.

Geoff Beckwith

March 6, 2009

George was, above all, a wonderful and compassionate person who cared deeply about the welfare and happiness of other people. His career in public service will stand as a lasting legacy of honorable leadership and respect for all. My wife Dru and I will miss him terribly, and will always treasure the moment he presided over our marriage as a Justice of the Peace (when he pronounced us married, the guests applauded and the Speaker held up his hand and said "That's very nice, but can we please have some applause for the bride and groom!"). With love, respect and sadness, we mourn his passing.

Joseph Curnane

March 6, 2009

We have lost a great and good man. Rest in peace Mr Speaker

Paul Redmond

March 6, 2009

Your legacy will be remembered forever. Your kindness and work in government will always be appreciated by all that you have helped. My father alsways smiles when he tells George Keverian stories.
God Bless

The Redmond Family

Chris DiMeo

March 6, 2009

With great sadness and sympathy to the Keverian family. Speaker Keverian was a happy warrior in a lifetime of public service to the citizens of the Commonwealth and he will be sorely missed.

Mildred Rocco

March 6, 2009

So Sorry To Hear of George's Death my sympathy to his family.

Dan Karg

March 6, 2009

George, I have always heard great things from your nephew Jack in Medfield.

God Bless

Megan S.

March 6, 2009

RIP Speaker Keverian. You showed us that a politician could be a decent, caring human being. Our condoleneces to the Keverian family.

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