Tashjian, George Housep Jr.
TROY - It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of gratitude that we announce the passing of a true Son of Uncle Sam, George "Sarge" Housep Tashjian Jr. Surrounded by the love of his family, Sarge passed away on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at Samaritan Hospital following a brief illness. He was 83 years old.
Born and raised in Troy, Sarge's roots ran deep in the city he loved. He was a proud son of the late George H. Tashjian Sr. and Lillian Raible Tashjian. After graduating from Public School 12 and Troy High School, he pursued a path of hands-on, practical learning that would define his life. He honed his technical skills at Williamsport Technical Institute in Pennsylvania, and deepened his knowledge at Hudson Valley Community College. This foundation in tangible, vocational training wasn't just a part of his education, it was a way of life that he applied to every role he ever held.
Sarge's career was a testament to his servant's heart. For many years, he was a bedrock of the Enlarged City School District of Troy, where he held the vital role of Manager of Building and Grounds and the audio-visual department. He was the unsung hero who ensured the school's infrastructure was a safe and welcoming environment for generations of students. His work was more than a job, it was a tireless effort to support the education of Troy's youth.
His commitment to the community extended far beyond the school district. As a dedicated Sergeant for the Rensselaer County Sheriff's Department, he served with honor and distinction, both at the County Jail and on the road. Sarge was a man of integrity, who protected and served with a steady hand and a compassionate spirit.
George's dedication to his community was also evident in his extensive involvement with numerous organizations. For many years, he was an active and respected member of the Rensselaer County Law Enforcement Association, the N.Y.S. Sheriffs Association, the Apollo-King Solomon's Masonic Lodge, and the Raymond C. Henry Fire Buff Club. He was also a proud member of the Sand Lake Association for Mutual Protection Against Horse Thieves, and was honored for his contributions to the community by the Troy High School Athletics Hall of Fame. These memberships were not just titles, they were a reflection of a life devoted to fellowship, service, and upholding the values he held dear.
Sarge's legacy of service and love lives on through his cherished family, including his uncle, John Tashjian; siblings, William J. Tashjian, Arlene (Brian) Schell, and Jill (Arthur) Depoian; and the entire Tashjian family, as well as the community he so proudly served.
Calling hours will be held at the Bryce Funeral Home Inc., 276 Pawling Ave., Troy, on Monday, August 25, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 12 p.m. His final resting place will be Elmwood Hill Cemetery in Troy.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in memory of George Housep Tashjian Jr., to Mike Rowe Works Foundation
https://mikeroweworks.org/donate, a foundation that champions the very kind of hands-on, vocational training that George valued and lived by. To share or send condolences, light a candle, view videos, or for service directions, please visit the
brycefuneralhome.com website.

Published by Albany Times Union on Aug. 24, 2025.