Michael Ohanian

1932 - 2024

Beloved Philanthropist, Engineering Leader, and Devoted Church Leader It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Ohanian, 92, on October 25, 2024. Mike was from Pompano Beach FL and formerly from Andover, MA. He passed peacefully with excellent care. Mike was a dedicated family man, passionate philanthropist, and accomplished engineer who left an indelible mark on communities in both the United States and Armenia. Mike was well-known for his commitment to helping others and fostering educational opportunities. Mike was born in Haverhill, MA and grew up in Methuen. He is survived by his loving daughter Debbie from Glendale, CA. He was predeceased by his loving wife and best friend of 69 years, Sonia. Also predeceased by, his Parents John and Maritza (Immigrants from Armenia) and two brothers George and Walter. Mike is survived by a loving family of sister-in-laws, as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews. After graduating from Merrimack College with a BS in Electrical Engineering he worked at Raytheon for many years. He was known as a pioneer in his field constantly being promoted to role of greater responsibility. He also held Vice President roles at Litton Industries and Martin Marrietta. For the last 15 years of his career he held executive positions of Vice President eventually being promoted to President of Intermec, a leader in Automatic Identification in Seattle, WA area. Mike was also an avid reader always interested in current events. Mike lived a full life of service to others. He was a U.S. Army veteran servicing during the Korean War (1952-1954). He also served on many boards both corporate and philanthropic. He was well known to be very handy and able to fix anything. Fixing and improving things was his hobby and pleasure. Family and friends all benefited from Mike's help. He showed up with his tools and went to work. Mike was very passionate about education and life long learning. He served on the board for his alma mater, Merrimack College, for many years. He also led the establishment of Automatic Identification Data Capture Laboratory at two Armenian Universities, State Engineering University of Armenia and Russian American University. Mike led this effort by providing equipment, software and training for both faculty and students. Mike also was very giving to the less fortunate in Armenia. He provided funding for improvements to an orphanage in Dilijian including building of barn for food supplies and remodeling of children's dormitories. Mike was a life-long advocate for the Armenian Church. Early on serving as Superintendent of Sunday School at Holy Cross Armenian Apostolic Church, Lawrence, MA (late 1970s). He later led maintenance and improvement efforts at both the Holy Cross Armenian Apostolic Church, and St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Church. Mike also served as godfather to St. Mary's Armenian Church in Cooper City, FL. Together with his wife Sonia, they became the main Godparents of the newly consecrated Armenian Church at Hye Pointe. Their efforts were so significant the church was named in honor of Mike. The name is Holy Archangels Armenian Church, St. Michael and St. Gabriel. This was a tremendous honor and sense of pride for both Mike and Sonia. Truly an impressive legacy of the life they led together. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his visitation on Friday, November 22nd, from 9:00-11:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Archangels Armenian Church, St. Michael & St. Gabriel, 1280 Boston Road, Haverhill, MA 01835. Interment will follow in the Linwood Cemetery, Haverhill. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holy Archangels Armenian Church, St. Michael & St. Gabriel, P.O. Box 8069, Ward Hill, MA 01835. Please make checks payable to "Hye Pointe." To share a memory or for more information, please visit www.farmerfuneralhomes.com To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Michael, please visit our floral store.