Ira K. Nahikian

NISKAYUNA – Ira K. Nahikian, 93, peacefully entered into eternal life on Friday, April 13, 2012. Born in Worcester, MA, he was the son of the late Kissag M. and Veronica Nahikian. Ira, or "Nick" as referred to by many, graduated from Bates College, Lewiston, ME where he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1940. A history and government major, he was active in the Political club, and Debating and Speakers Bureau and graduated earning the Phi Beta Kappa key "Love of Wisdom, the Guide of Life." A veteran of World War II, Mr. Nahikian proudly served his country in the Army Air Corp as a radio telegraph instructor. Following military service, Ira graduated from Bentley College, School of Accounting in Waltham, MA and joined the Financial Management Training Program of General Electric Company. In 1950 he transferred from Lynn, MA and was assigned staff responsibility for product department tax accounting. Following further tasks at Fitchburg, MA and York, PA he returned to Schenectady in 1954 and joined the traveling auditing staff, engaging in domestic and foreign assignments. In 1955 he was transferred to the Treasury Operations Dept. where he served as a systems and procedures specialist. Ira was appointed Manager of Share Owner Records Administration in 1966 where he assisted in the planning and operation of the company's annual stockholders meeting and was responsible for reports and statistics; in addition being responsible for communicating with share owners about their accounts. Mr. Nahikian was a member of the G. E. Elfun Society, the Phi Beta Kappa Society, National Accountants Assoc. Toastmaster's International, Full Gospel Business Men's Fellowship International and the Octavo Singers of Schenectady. He enjoyed sports, especially the Boston Red Sox and he played handball. Ira and his wife Mary enjoyed traveling, their favorite being cruises and summer vacations at the New England seashore. Ira was a communicant and lector at the Church of St. Clare in Colonie. Because of his great faith in God, he has touched many lives. He will be remembered by family, friends and colleagues as a man of integrity, good humor, warmth and generosity. Ira is survived by his devoted wife of forty-five years, Mary (O'Clair) Nahikian; his brother, Edwin H. Nahikian of Hilton Head, SC and many nieces, nephews and several grandnieces and grandnephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Martha Nahikian and sister-in-law Joan Nahikian.
Funeral services will be Wednesday morning at 8:15 am. at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie (Rt. 155-south of Central Ave.) then to St. Clare's Church, Colonie at 9:00 a.m. where the Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Calling hours will be Tuesday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the church. Entombment will be in Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery, Niskayuna. In lieu of flowers, those who desire may make contributions to the Church of St. Clare, 1947 Central Ave., Albany, NY 12205 or Ellis Medicine, The Foundation, c/o Suzanne Smart, 1101 Nott St., Schenectady, NY 12308 in memory of Ira K. Nahikian.