Nishan M. Frankian, 93, formerly of Worcester, died Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2003, at the Masonic Home in Charlton. His wife of 63 years, Sara (Aslanian) Frankian, passed away in October, 1996. A son, Robert N. passed away in November, 1997.
Nick leaves his granddaughter, Lori A. Frankian of Boston, grandson, Brett D. Frankian of Shrewsbury, and 2 great-grandsons.
Born in Kharpoot, Turkey in 1910, Nishan survived the Armenian Genocide where he lost his father and 4 brothers and was separated from his mother. After years as an orphan, he was recognized and put in touch with family in the U.S., who sponsored living arrangements in Marce’, France where he worked as a chemist before coming to the U.S. in 1930. Nishan was reunited with his mother and 2 brothers and quickly went to work. Earning his barber’s degree, Nick cut hair in the Greendale area of Worcester for 61 years. He married in 1933, joined the Masonic Order in 1935 (later 32nd Degree), and became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1936.
As a property owner and resident of Greendale, Nishan lost his 3-story home to the Tornado of ’53 along with 2 family members. Thanks to the kindness of many people, the Red Cross, and the Greendale Peoples Church, Nishan built a new life for his family and never forgot those who helped and supported him over the years. For all who knew him, his love for his country was second to his love for his family.
The Funeral Service will be held at 12 O'clock noon, Friday, Dec. 5, at the Greendale People’s Church, 25 Francis St. Burial will be in Mt. View Cemetery, Shrewsbury. Calling hours will be held from 10 a.m. – 12, Friday, Dec. 5. at Greendale People's Church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Greendale People’s Church, 25 Francis St., Worcester, MA 01606 or the Masonic Home, 88 Masonic Home Rd., Charlton, MA 01507.