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Arik Khatchatourian of Acton, formerly of Belmont, age 67, passed away on Friday, October 31st at Mount Auburn Hospital after a brief bout with cancer. His intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma diagnosis in August was a devastating shock to Arik’s many friends and family who enjoyed his kind-hearted, fun-loving presence at every gathering he was invited to.
That Arik never missed a family event made his passing felt deeply by a wide network of extended family. Arik was the youngest of a close-knit Armenian family who immigrated from Iran. He was born in Tehran, Iran on July 12, 1958 to Armenian genocide survivor father Hartoun Khatchatourian and mother Zita, who raised Arik and his siblings with a deep appreciation for their heritage. Armenian was Arik’s first language, followed by Farsi, which he learned growing up in Iran. When he later immigrated to the United States as a young teenager, he learned English and quickly embraced life in his new home, while always keeping a strong connection to his multicultural roots.
Arik was predeceased by his beloved brothers Edwart Khatchatourian (2024), Seroush “Seroj” Khatchatourian (2023), and Armond Khatchatourian (1988). His older sister, Rima Khayat of Summit, New Jersey, is now the only surviving member of the original Khatchatourian family. He is also survived by his loving sisters-in-law, Anahid Khatchatourian of Boston and Elyse Khatchatourian of Watertown, both of whom he shared very close relationships with.
A devoted uncle and great-uncle, Arik’s dependable, warm presence will be greatly missed by the nieces and nephews he lovingly doted on - Tina Khayat and Nasri Khayat of Summit, New Jersey; Alex Khatchatourian and his wife Linda of Paris, France; Patrick Khatchatourian and his wife Laura of Arlington; Mila Khatchatourian of Watertown; and Eric Khatchatourian and his wife Elizabethe of Chelmsford. Uncle Arik’s death is also a great loss to his young grand-nephews, Charles Khatchatourian, age 4 years, and Wilson Khatchatourian, age 1 year, of Arlington, who adored his playful and grandfatherly company. Arik’s love and generosity shone through in his commitment to family. He never missed a party, holiday, or simple weekend gathering. His fun-loving spirit was matched only by his joy in surprising his grand-nephews with unforgettable gadgets, from a rideable toy school bus to stuffed animals bigger than the boys themselves.
Arik’s spirit lives on in countless family memories. His nephew Patrick, who shared a particularly close bond with him, fondly remembers Arik teaching him to drive as a teenager. Throughout Patrick and his brother Alex’s childhood, Arik and his mother, Zita, often cared for the boys while their parents were working, and Arik treated them as though they were his own children. He loved taking them to sporting events over the years, creating memories that became cherished family stories. One especially unforgettable moment was a Patriots playoff game in the early 2000s, when the temperature hovered below zero. Despite repeated warnings from the boys to bundle up, Arik arrived wearing only a sweater, insisting, “Don’t worry about me, I’ll be fine.” True to his good-natured humor, he spent much of the game warming up in the stadium bathroom, becoming a story that still makes the family laugh to this day. Moments like these perfectly capture Arik’s adventurous, loving, and endlessly good-humored character.
Arik was a big sports fan with a notable passion for international soccer. He was enthusiastically looking forward to attending the Soccer World Cup in person in 2026, when it comes to Boston. His love of soccer began in his childhood in Iran and came with him to the United States, where he played on the Watertown High School team. Upon graduating in 1977, Arik attended Bentley University. Arik went on to prove himself a hard worker with a long, successful career at Star Market. Not long after immigrating to the United States as a young teenager, Arik got a job as a bagger at his local Star Market. Over the decades, he worked his way up to Produce Manager, most recently at the Waltham location. Arik greatly enjoyed the friendships he made throughout his time with Star Market.
For the past decade, Arik made his home in Acton with his cherished parrot, Birdie. The bond they shared was truly special. Birdie was
a constant, loving companion for Arik who filled the home with color, chatter, and affection. Arik delighted in caring for Birdie, providing endless love and attention. In return, Birdie gave Arik great comfort and loyalty, often perching close by to keep him company through daily routines and quiet evenings. Their companionship brought Arik immense joy and solace. Ensuring Birdie’s well-being after his passing was one of Arik’s top concerns, and he found peace knowing Birdie would continue to be loved and cared for by a loving family friend.
Arik’s gentle and nurturing spirit extended far beyond his bond with Birdie. Before settling in Acton, he lived in Belmont with his beloved mother, Zita, until her passing in 2015. Their close relationship was one of deep mutual care. Arik’s devotion to her reflected the same compassion and loyalty that touched every part of his life.
Arik will be remembered for his warmth, humor, generosity, and unshakable dedication to family. His presence brought joy and light to all who knew him, and his absence will be profoundly felt.
The family graciously accepts flowers or donations in Arik’s name to St. Stephen’s Armenian Apostolic Church of Greater Boston or Saint Jude Children’s Hospital. Family and friends are invited to Arik’s funeral service on November 6th at 11am at St. Stephen’s Church, 38 Elton Ave, Watertown, MA.