Z. Harry Astor

Z. Astor Obituary

ASTOR, Z.Harry (85), passed away on September 11, 2007, from prostate cancer. He was born the eldest son of Arakelian M. Astor and Shenorhig Astor on April 16, 1922 in Fresno, CA. He graduated L.A. High School in 1940 and volunteered for the Army Air Corps in 1942 where he attained the rank of 2nd Lieutenant, graduating as a bombardier. After his service, he attended USC Law School where he graduated in 1948. He was an avid Trojan fan who bled Cardinal and Gold. Harry was a practicing attorney for 58 years in L.A. and Orange County. He began his career as a general practitioner with an emphasis in family law. He also gained very broad courtroom experience, having tried over 100 civil and criminal cases in both state and federal courts. Later, he became a leading expert in corporate and environmental law, where he played an instrumental role as a Waste and Recycling industry lobbyist in Sacramento for more than 30 years. He was also a Master Mason and a Shriner. His greatest source of pride was his family and the innumerable friendships he amassed over his lifetime. His deep Christian faith sustained him throughout his life, especially during a very difficult battle with prostate cancer that lasted 14 years. Yet he never gave up. A resident of North Tustin for nearly 47 years, Harry was an avid golfer, passionate stock market investor, world traveler, and an Angels fan. He was also a member of the Triple X Armenian Fraternity for over 50 years, serving as that organization's Grand Master in 1980-81, in addition to being a founding member of its Orange County Chapter. He is survived by the great love of his life for 58 years, Marjorie (Loofbourow) Astor; sons, Jim (Cindy), Bob, Kelly (Sherry) & Tom (Helga); grandchildren, Craig, Johnny, Jenny, Steve, Katie, Doug and Sarah; and brother, Arthur. His life will be celebrated with a memorial service at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, September 18, 2007 at St. Mary Armenian Apostolic Church, located at 148 E. 22nd St., Costa Mesa, CA 92627. Donations may be made to The Ararat Home of Los Angeles, at 15105 Mission Hills Rd., Mission Hills, CA 91345, and the American Cancer Society. Funeral arrangements will be handled by Pacific View Mortuary, 3500 Pacific view Dr., Corona Del Mar, CA 92625.

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Published by Los Angeles Times from Sep. 14 to Sep. 15, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Z. Astor

6 Entries

michael wallace

September 23, 2007

I was very saddened to hear that Harry had passed.

We have a greek restaurant in tustin, and Harry and his wonderful family come in all the time.

The thing I noticed about him, is that he always had a smile on his face and was always happy.

I see so many people that don't even talk to eachother when they come in for dinner, or lunch.

Missed opportunities to catch up on the latest news and ongoings.

But Harry and his family...always seem to be enjoying themselves and display care and love.

I've never seen so much love...it's like the state of texas can't hold it.

At the risk of sounding corny...It really just shows what a man he was.

I lost my mom a while back, and I know that she's in a better place.

I too know that Harry is in this same place.

And I feel fortunate...no...lucky to have known him.

And the Astor family.

Mike

Gene Snitker

September 20, 2007

I was blessed to be able to attend the memorial service that celebrated the life of Harry Astor earlier this week at St. Mary's Armenian church. While it is always difficult to say goodby to a friend or loved one; it is obvious from the loving comments of Harry's family during the service that Harry is still very much alive in their hearts. May God bless them all. Harry, thank you for being a mentor to me in business during our years together with Apperson Business Forms. (Harry was on the board of directors and an investor in the company). His insight, and keen sense of humor, had a big impact on the progression of my professional career. He was very gratious with his time and knowledge. I was fortunate enough to have known Harry...I will remember him for the balance of my life.

BARRY BESSER

September 19, 2007

I was saddened to hear of Harry's passing. My condolences to the family.

Bob & Paddy Craun

September 18, 2007

Our condolences at your time of loss. Your x-neighbors on La Limonar now living in Hemet.

Stacey Craun

September 16, 2007

The thing I remember the most about Mr. Astor was his great big smile! I grew up down the street from the Astors and I don't think I ever saw Mr. Astor without that smile. My condolences to the family for their loss of such a nice man! My prayers are with you.

RAYMOND ZICKFELD

September 14, 2007

As members of Wilshire Methodist Church Marjorie and I remember Harry and Marjorie as well as Marjorie's sister, Virginia. At one time we were involved in the young people's group there. The two of us go back many years in our friendship with Harry and Marjorie. The last time we saw Harry was at a USC basketball game when he sat behind us at the Sports Arena, and that was not too long ago. Harry will be missed by all who knew him.

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