| It is with profound sadness that the Armenian Heritage Cruise (AHC) Committee announces the passing of one of our founding members, Barbara Haroutunian. Barbara was an integral part of the AHC and well known to all of our guests. Barbara had many facets to her life and career. Barbara’s family, friends and Armenian life were at her core. She was very active at St. John’s Armenian Church of Southfield, MI serving in leadership roles with the Komitas Choir and parish Women’s Guild, the Women’s Guild Central Council and other Diocesan-level committees, along with the Daughters of Vartan and AHC! Barbara was an accomplished educator and had a long career as a Principal in the Detroit School System. After her retirement from public education, her skills as an educator turned international in scope. Among her many accomplishments, she was approached by the Patriarchate of Jerusalem to restructure the curriculum of its Tarkmanchatz School. Barbara’s organizational and interpersonal skills were always front and center with the AHC and our guests. Most remember her smiling face and outgoing personality as the committee member who aptly coordinated the popular Armenian Festival Day on the AHC. From the dance contests, to the best tri-color costume, to handling the face painting for the children, Barbara approached each of her responsibilities with vigor and professionalism. Barbara Haroutunian is survived by her daughter Lindsay Sahakian and her husband Aram; Grandchildren Chloe and Mason; her dear brother Dr. Gary Zamanigian and his wife Mariann, nephew Drew Zamanigian and countless colleagues, relatives and friends. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. On behalf of the Armenian Heritage Cruise, we extend our deepest heartfelt condolences to the family. Funeral services will be private, and memorial donations may be made to St. John Armenian Church, 22001 Northwestern Highway, Southfield, MI 48075. Asdvadz Hokin Loosavoreh |
