Antranik 'Andy' Barsamian

Antranik 'Andy' Barsamian passed away peacefully on March 23, 2025. The loss leaves us with heavy hearts, but with a legacy of loving and giving, a shining example of a life well-lived.

Born August 1, 1930, to Armenian immigrants, Andy's earliest memories were of working by his dad's side on the family vineyard growing table grapes in Parlier, CA. Here is where his love for the land, early mornings and Armenian food took root. In his youth, he served as an altar boy and often played his violin in St. Mary's Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church in Yettem, and excelled in academics and sports at Parlier High and Reedley Junior College before going on to earn his pharmacy degree from Oregon State.

Andy loved all things Oregon State including Eloise Cottel who sat behind him in his first chemistry class. He became President of the Acacia Fraternity and accompanied Eloise, who quickly became the love of his life, to ballgames, dances and, of course, to class.

In 1954, Andy married Eloise, and together they moved to Fresno where Andy worked weekdays as a pharmacist and weekends farming with his dad. Unafraid of taking risks, in 1959, with two children in tow, they moved to Patterson, CA. Here, they added a second son to their family, joined the Federated Church and became deeply rooted in their new hometown. Opening their own community pharmacy, Patterson Drug, they worked day and night to build the life of their dreams. And dream they did. Over the span of their careers, with their sons continuing the Barsamian legacy in the pharmacy profession and joining the family business, they opened several stores in the Central Valley.

Whether providing medication late at night to the sick or coaching his sons' Little League games, Andy was always there for his family and others. His dedication earned him the Melvin Jones Fellow Award for his outstanding service to the Lions Club and the community. He held numerous leadership roles throughout the region, including at the University of the Pacific. Andy mentored young pharmacy students and just as he did with his own children, inspired them to work hard and never give up on their dreams. The youth, his co-workers, customers and townspeople were an important part of his extended family.

In retirement, Andy and Eloise settled in Carmel, where Andy--often seen walking the beach with their dog, Abby--befriended everyone he met, and with that signature smile of his he would usually invite them home and offer them raisins and pistachios.

Andy leaves behind Eloise, his wife, of 71 years; his sister, Margaret Flagler; his daughter, Brenda (Jack) Sieglock, their children Chris (Rachel), Mark (Greta), and Amanda; his son, Randy Barsamian, his children Robert (Elizabeth), David (Christina), and Natalie (Josiah) Frisbie; and his son, Robert (Trisha) Barsamian their children Sarah, Ashley and Ryan; as well as, seven much-loved great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Azad and Hairabed Barsamian; his younger brother, George; and his baby sister, Margaret Barsamian.

He loved deeply and was deeply loved in return. He was our hero--and your friend.

Andy's life will be celebrated with a private family service and entombment.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of your love and prayers at this difficult time; we cannot thank you enough for all your support. Remembrances may be made to the church or charity dear to your heart; memories may be shared at legacy.com.