Victor Khachikian

Victor Khachikian, 84, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 7, 2021 with his loving family by his side. Victor was the son of the late Hovhannes and Takouhi Khachikian. He was predeceased by his two brothers, Khachik and Vartan, and his sister, Alice. He was the devoted husband to the late Mary (Margosian) Khachikian. The two met in Asbury Park, New Jersey, where Mary was vacationing and Victor worked as a bellhop. Although she only tipped him 25 cents, he hit the jackpot that day. They were married for 37 years.

Victor was born in Havresk, Iraq and was proud of his Armenian heritage. Having been raised by Armenian genocide survivors, Victor and his family were incredibly resilient, and his love for Armenia was one of his best qualities. Life in Baghdad was full of adventure, as he was an excellent soccer player and loved swimming in the Tigris River with his friends. He always made his grandchildren smile with the stories of mischief that he told. Victor had a brilliant mind, as he was at the top of his class in Baghdad and spoke English, Armenian, Arabic, German, Kurdish, Turkish, and Assyrian. After many adventures across Europe, he immigrated to the United States in his early twenties.

Victor was a member and communicant of St. Peter Armenian Apostolic Church in Watervliet. He worked as a chemist for over 30 years. His work ethic and drive were unparalleled, and he instilled these qualities in his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed travelling, playing the stock market, watching Western TV shows, listening to Armenian music, playing backgammon, and spending time with his family.

Victor is survived by his daughters, Rebecca (Michael) Dearstyne and Lori (Michael) Brown, and several nieces and nephews. He was the proud and devoted grandfather of Renee, John-Michael, Ryan, Conner, and Lauren. Victor was like a third parent to his grandchildren, as he helped raise them, care for them, and bring them wherever they needed to go. You could always see him at their music, sporting, and school events. He was always there to babysit and spoil them. His generosity knew no bounds. Victor's grandchildren adored him, with one of their favorite things being going on vacation with him in Disney World and Florida.

Calling hours will be held at St. Peter Armenian Apolistic Church, 100 Troy Schenectady Rd., Watervliet, New York on Saturday June 12, 2021 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. A funeral service will follow the calling hours at 12:00 p.m. at the Church. The burial will follow the service at Elmwood Hill Cemetery, Troy, New York.

Donations can be made to St. Peter Armenian Apostolic Church in Watervliet.