BY LALIG KOUNDAKJIAN
July 2026 marked the tenth anniversary of the passing of Varoujan Koundakjian, a visionary, philanthropist, and true patriot of the Armenian nation. Beloved by all who knew him, Varoujan left an indelible mark on the Armenian community through his lifelong dedication and service, both in Los Angeles and in Armenia.
To honor his generous spirit, close friends and family gathered on July 12 for a memorial service and reception at St. Garabed Church and the adjoining Hollywood Armenian Youth Center. The event raised $30,000 to fund meaningful projects for the organizations he held dear. Among these initiatives are the naming of the Armenian Youth Federation office at the Hollywood Armenian Youth Center and supporting the expansion of the new Hamazkayin building.
The day began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly renamed AYF office, accompanied by a blessing from Very Rev. Vicken Vassilian.
Longtime friend and colleague Rafi Ourfalian served as the master of ceremonies at the reception, setting a heartfelt tone for the afternoon with his opening remarks. This was followed by a thoughtful video presentation created by Varoujan’s son, Sevag. The presentation featured a collage of photographs, videos, and interviews chronicling Varoujan’s life. The touching tribute took the audience down memory lane, evoking both laughter and tears.
The remembrance continued with personal reflections from a circle of close friends and community leaders. Very Rev. Vicken Vassilian, John Titizian, Houry Abajian, Mourad Shahinian, Avedik Izmirlian, Vahan Garboushian, Aram Aslanian, John Kossakian, Sarkis Kitsinian, Armine Koundakjian, and Carlos Bozoghlian each shared stories celebrating Varoujan’s humor, kindness, and lasting impact. Their words reflected the deep affection and admiration shared by all who knew him.
For his lifelong friends and family, the gathering was a deeply meaningful opportunity to come together, share memories, and celebrate an exceptional life. Among those present were Varoujan’s two 12-year-old grandchildren, Kami and Alik. Though they lost their grandfather at a young age, they witnessed firsthand the profound influence of a man whose legacy will continue to guide and inspire them throughout their lives.
While the dedication event showcased Varoujan’s extensive accomplishments, it was ultimately his vibrant personality that defined the day. Speakers highlighted his quick wit, unique way of thinking, effective approach, and remarkable problem-solving abilities, alongside his generous nature and kind heart.
As the iconic Armenian poet Hovhannes Toumanian once wrote: “Deeds are immortal. Know well that they are spoken of from generation to generation. Blessed is the one who lives on forever through his deeds, without end.”
Few embodied these sentiments as fully as Varoujan Koundakjian. He fully embodied the timeless lesson that, above all else, good deeds are immortal.