Artin Sarkissian

Artin Sarkissian, age 90 of Millbrae, California died on March 9, 2024, from cancer. He was born on February 11, 1934, in Baghdad, Iraq, to parents Avedis and Arusyak Sarkissian. Artin attended barber school in Baghdad, and at the young age of 21 opened up Art's Barber Shop. Even though he enjoyed living in Baghdad he had heard many great stories of America and decided to move to the United States and live the "American Dream". At the age of 26, he sold his shop and headed for San Francisco, California, where he lived with friends from his hometown. He attended cosmetology school in San Francisco, while bartending at night. In 1965 after graduation he landed a job working at a barber shop in the Fairmont Hotel. Shortly thereafter he wed Hilda Martin and moved to Millbrae. His hard work and determination paid off and he was able to start his own business Art's Barber Shop at the Jack Tar Hotel, later named Cathedral Hill Hotel in San Francisco. His skilled hands, and social personality provided him with a long list of celebrity clientele. Artin's Barber Shop remained open for over 45 years. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, daughter Lisa Vartabedian (Paul Vartabedian), grandchildren, Kara Vartabedian, Julia Vartabedian, Olivia Vartabedian and son, Avo Sarkissian (Sandy Tong). Art lived a full happy life and was proud of not only his many achievements, but those of his family.