Stephen Stepanian of Needham, formerly of Lexington, September 29, 2022
Born in Aleppo Syria, Stephen Stepanian, “Steve” was the son of Armenian genocide survivors, Antranig and Asghig Stepanian, originally from Dikranagert.
Speaking five languages, Steve was culturally rich and ambitious. Immigrating to the U.S. in 1955 was a move that changed his life and the lives of the family members who followed.
Within 6 months, he met and married Esther Sarmanian, daughter of Haroutiun and Lousapar, also genocide survivors, from Marash.
Steve worked hard to build a life and family.
In 1964 he joined Printed Circuit Corporation as their accounting manager. Steadily advancing, Steve ultimately became President, as the company grew from 22 to 500 employees.
During this time, Steve’s family grew. They had 3 daughters and a son. Together they enjoyed traveling in the U.S. and abroad, and summering in Wolfeboro NH.
Throughout his life, Steve carried an active love for Armenia, fostering children, supporting several initiatives in the homeland, and pursuing justice for Armenia. He governed his home with this love and dedication.
He was the beloved husband of Esther, father of Andrea Southard, and her husband Ken, Lisa Stepanian and her husband Robert, Stephanie Stepanian and her husband Tom, and the late Paul Stepanian and his wife Julie.
Loving grandfather of Rachel Jackson, Daniel Farrohi and his wife Tanya, Alexandra Farrohi, Ella and Paul Stepanian. Brother of Marie Kouyoumjian, (Karnig) Rev. Aram Stepanian, (Margaret), Margo Kozelian (Arsen) and Koko Stepanian, (Armine). Brother-in-law of, JoAnn and Dick Janjigian, the late Peter and Agnes Sarmanian, and Sandy and the late Hagop Sarmanian. Also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Funeral service at St. James Armenian Church, 465 Mt.Auburn Street, Watertown on Tuesday, October 4 at 11:00 a.m. Visiting hours: Bedrosian Funeral Home, 558 Mt. Auburn Street, Watertown on Monday, October 3, 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
The family prefers, in lieu of flowers, donations to Armenian Missionary Association of America, Orphan and Child Care Program, 31 West Century Road, Paramus, N.J. 07652, St. James Armenian Church, or The Armenian Church of the Holy Translators. Interment at Mount Auburn Cemetery, Cambridge.