Sarkisian, Joseph H. of Arlington, MA passed away peacefully at home on May 5th just a few weeks before his 92nd birthday. Joseph was born to Flora and Hagop Sarkisian and lived in Somerville during his early years. Later, the family moved to East Arlington and started a confectioner wholesale business where Joseph worked alongside his father. After graduating from Arlington High School with the Class of 1943, Joseph left Arlington at the tender age of 18 to serve his country in the U.S. Army in WWII, during which he was stationed in France and Germany. Although he rarely spoke of his wartime experiences, he was known to comment that he would never sleep or camp outside ever again. He returned to Arlington after the War to work at the family store and eventually in the engineering department for the State. He remained a bachelor into his 40’s until, much to his parents’ relief, he met his future wife Catherine. Once married, he became an instant father to his new wife’s two young children.
Joseph was a man of honor and integrity. He was a proud member of AMVETS Post 41 and Saint James Church in Watertown; an avid bargain hunter and reader who loved playing poker, listening to jazz and traveling with his wife to Europe and many Caribbean Islands. Most of all, he was happiest when spending time with his family.
He leaves behind his devoted wife of 50 years Catherine (Fernald), his children David Morrison and Linda Vierboom, daughter-in-law Pamela Morrison and Linda’s partner Robert Croke. His adoring grandchildren, Yana & Mia Vierboom and David & Scott Morrison, as well as many loved nieces, nephews and extended family fondly cherish their memories of their Opa/Grandpa/Uncle Joe. Joseph was predeceased by his siblings Sarkis Sarkisian, Ann Bazarian and Mary Sarkisian.
Loved ones and friends are invited to call during visiting hours at The Bedrosian Funeral Home located at 558 Mount Auburn Street, Watertown on Thursday, May 11th from 6-9 PM. A chapel service will be held on Friday, May 12th, at 11:00 AM at the Bedrosian Funeral Home followed by burial at Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge. Relatives & friends are kindly invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to make a memorial contribution in Joseph’s memory are kindly asked to consider a donation to the Saint James Armenian Church, 465 Mt. Auburn St., Watertown, MA 02472.
For further information or to express your condolences online, please visit:
Bedrosianfuneralhome.com