AGBU Europe inform with great sadness of the passing of former AGBU Central Board member Vartkess Balian. He died on Sunday, August 3, 2008, at the age of 76.
The AGBU Europe Board Members and the entire AGBU organization extend their deepest condolences to his wife, Rita Balian, his sons, Raffi and Sevag, and the entire Balian family for their loss.
The wake will be held on Friday, August 15, from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Saint Mary Armenian Church, 4125 Fessenden Street, NW, Washington, DC 20016.
The funeral service will take place on Saturday, August 16 at 9:30 am, also at Saint Mary Armenian Church.
Vartkess Balian was an active member of AGBU and served on the Central Board with great distinction.
He and his wife, Rita, were the founders of the AGBU New York Summer Intern Program (NYSIP) in 1987. It was their vision to bring together Armenian youth from the United States, Canada and other international locations to New York to live, work and learn of their Armenian heritage in a community experience.
Over the past twenty-one years, NYSIP has become one of the most successful and sought-after youth activities of AGBU. It has since been duplicated in both France and Armenia.
He has always been a most ardent, loyal supporter of our Armenian heritage and a leader within the larger Armenian-American community. He has provided a wonderful example of generosity by his donation of time, talent and gifts to many fine works here and abroad.
His life has inspired many by all he accomplished. He will be sorely missed by our worldwide community and the entire Armenian nation.
Personal expressions of condolence may be sent to:
Mrs. Rita Balian
1300 Crystal Drive, Apt. 1505
Arlington, VA 22202
The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to “The Armenian American Wellness
Center”:
C/o AACA, Inc.
1300 Crystal Drive, Suite 1504
Arlington, VA 22202