Raymond Avedian

"Radar" was born in Fresno to George and Lily from Van, Armenia, who preceded him in death (1971, 1999) along with his younger brother, Leonard (2001). He graduated from Fresno High and Fresno State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in agriculture specializing in animal husbandry. He honorably served in the Army during WWII era, and taught secondary education before his long career as a Rabies Control Officer in the Fresno County Health Department.

Radar was highly active in several churches, attending three services each Sunday. His love of the Lord and value of prayer and scripture was central in his life, and secondarily, his great love for horses and ranching. A lifelong passion, he fastidiously read and knew everything about equines and ranching from livestock to the land. At 90, he purchased a cowhide to craft a saddle. He was a faithful attendee of the Clovis rodeo, a fixture in church, enjoyed his '66 Chevy Impala and car shows with best friend, Bob Scory, and was the family historian. He affably loved keeping relations with friends and family, even childhood neighbors, meeting friends and good conversation, but even when he was crossed by others, he genuinely prayed for them. A lifelong Fresnan and supporter of veterans, he led the neighborhood watch group. He left his mark on others by his love for wanting what is right, true, good and faithful to his Lord, and his being ever faithful in prayer.

Radar is survived by his sister-in-law and nieces, Boni, Krissy and Gabrielle, first cousins Norman and Richard among many other cousins, and his close friend of many years, Darlene Martin. He will be missed by many, but we rejoice with him that he is in the presence of the Lord, and we will see him again in the resurrection. His primary life purpose was to be a faithful son, brother, and servant to the Lord, but he proclaimed that he was not righteous in his own right; that his salvation was purchased by God when he trusted in Christ’s righteousness to atone for sins instead of trusting in his own ability, so that no one may boast of their works. Now he has been transferred from the rolls of the Church militant to that of the Church triumphant.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Raymond’s name to the Armenian Missionary Association of America at (201) 265-2607.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.lislefuneralhome.com for the Avedian family.