Simon Oksazian

A devoted husband, father, grandfather,

father-in-law, uncle, brother, teacher, and friend.

Simon’s story begins with his parents. His father, Sarkis Oksazian, originally from Lebanon, was

stationed in Latakia, Syria, as a French Foreign Legion soldier. It was there, in Latakia, that he met

Rebecca Hadedian of Kesab, Syria — the woman who would become his devoted wife and lifelong

companion. Together, they built their life in Latakia and began their family, laying a foundation of faith,

culture, and tradition that would shape generations to come.

After completing his service in the French Foreign Legion, and in the years that followed during the

1950s in Latakia, Sarkis devoted himself to teaching dance and became the proud owner of the Rupen

Mamoulian Dance School. Dance was woven deeply into the foundation of their home — part of their

identity, heritage, and daily life.

It was in this home, filled with music, movement, and tradition, that Simon was born on January 15,

1951, in Latakia, Syria. He was a devoted brother to Avedis and Panos.

In 1957, the family moved to Lebanon, where Simon spent much of his childhood and teenage years.

That same year, they welcomed his youngest brother, Khatchig, completing their family.

From a very young age, Simon showed extraordinary passion and talent for Armenian dance and culture.

What began as a love for movement soon became his life’s calling.

Growing up, Simon was not only a gifted dancer — he was also an acrobat and a diver, demonstrating

strength, discipline, and fearlessness even as a young boy.

At around 13 years old, he began helping his older brother, Avedis, and his father in his brother’s atelier,

working as a shoemaker. There, he learned the values of hard work, craftsmanship, discipline, and

dedication. Even as his professional dance career began to flourish, he remained loyal to his family,

continuing to work alongside them and honor their trade.

He began his professional dance career with the Hamaskayeen Dance Ensemble in Bourj Hammoud

from 1967 to 1970. He later joined the Lebanese Dance Ensemble from 1970 to 1974, followed by the

Antoine Heshim Dance Ensemble from 1974 to 1976.

He performed with renowned artists such as Sabah, Farid al-Atrash, Issam Rajji, Tony Hanna, Wadih El

Safi, Nasri Shamseddine, Naza Younes, Hiyam Younis, Mohammad Jamal, Samir Yazbek, Melhem

Barakat, Afif Chaya, Samir Kanaan, GeorgeNe Neboulsi, Laila Nazmi, Taroub, and Joseph Azar.

He also worked with renowned director Romeo Lahoud and the choreographer

Marwan Jarar.

In addition, he performed alongside dancers Kegham and Alan Merhab.

During this flourishing period of his dance career, Simon also began the most important chapter of his

life. On October 29, 1972, Simon married Anahid DerMardirossian, his beloved wife and devoted life

partner. She was the woman who would stand faithfully beside him for the rest of his life. Together, they

built a beautiful family rooted in love, resilience, and faith, sharing more than five decades of unwavering

commitment and devotion.

Their son, Vahe, was born in 1973.

Due to the Lebanese Civil War, Simon and his family migrated to Paris, France, in 1978, where their

daughter, Garine, was born. The family later relocated to Switzerland and ultimately made the United

States their permanent home in the summer of 1980. In 1981, they welcomed their son, Avedis.

After settling in the United States, Simon continued his professional dance career as a member of the

Lebanese dance group Layalina, performing throughout the nation and internationally from 1981 to

1990.

In 1990, Simon founded Simon’s Dance Group, where he began teaching Armenian and international

dance throughout various cities in Los Angeles and internationally. Through his dedication and passion,

he taught thousands of students and instilled in them a deep appreciation and love for Armenian dance

and cultural heritage.

From 1999 to 2004, Simon fulfilled a lifelong dream by traveling to Armenia and graduating from

Armenia’s Mangavarjan Hamalsaran. During his time there, he visited many villages throughout Armenia,

learning traditional dances directly from villagers. He was accompanied by Karen Kevorkian, Director of

the Bert Dance Ensemble, further deepening his knowledge and strengthening his connection to his

homeland.

In 2009, his dance group was proudly renamed Simon and Patil Dance Group following the birth of his

cherished granddaughter, Patil Krikorian — a reflection of how deeply family and legacy meant to him.

In 2013, Simon faced a serious illness and underwent surgery that significantly impacted his health.

During that first year, he was unable to teach as he focused on recovery. Determined to preserve

everything he had built, his daughter Garine stepped in and began teaching his classes.

A year later, Simon found the strength to return. Together, father and daughter began teaching side by

side — sharing the classroom, the music, and the legacy he had created. For over a decade, even as his

health challenges persisted, he continued guiding and mentoring with remarkable resilience, dedication,

and faith.

The birth of his grandson, Joseph Krikorian Jr., in 2022 brought him renewed strength and joy, giving

him yet another reason to continue his courageous fight. For three years, he faced his illness with

strength and determination, even as his health declined.

Surrounded by his loving family and strengthened by his faith, Simon Oksazian passed away on

February 13, 2026.

He was especially blessed by the unwavering devotion of his beloved wife, Anahid Oksazian, who cared

for him selflessly as his health declined. She stood beside him day in and day out, embodying true love,

commitment, and faith. His children were equally devoted — present every day, caring for him with

strength, tenderness, and unwavering love, ensuring he was never alone for a single moment. His son in-

law stood faithfully alongside the family, offering constant support and strength during this difficult

journey. Even his cherished grandchildren brought him comfort and light through their presence,

reminding him daily of the legacy of love he had built. Together, they walked beside him through his final

journey, placing their trust in God’s will and holding him in prayer until his final breath.

Simon’s life was one of perseverance, faith, love, and service. He gave his heart fully to his family, to his

students, and to his culture. He did not simply teach dance — he preserved history, identity, and

tradition for generations to come.

His legacy will continue through his children, especially his daughter, Garine Krikorian, who remains

committed to preserving and sharing his lifelong work and devotion to Armenian dance within our

community. With honor and dignity, his legacy will also continue through his beloved granddaughter,

Patil Krikorian, and through every student who carries his teachings forward.

Simon Oksazian is survived by his beloved wife, Anahid Oksazian; his daughter, Garine Krikorian, and

her husband, Joseph Krikorian, and their children, Patil and Joseph Krikorian Jr.; his son, Vahe

Oksazian, and his wife, Peggy Momjian; and his son, Avedis Oksazian.

May his memory be eternal.

May God grant rest to his soul and comfort to all who loved him.

A message from his children:

Our father will always live in our hearts and in our minds, forever.

Rest in peace, Dad, with our Father in Heaven.

We love you so much.

Simon Oksazian passed away on February 13, 2026, at the age of 74.

A Funeral Service will be held at Glendale Funeral Home, 511 South Central Avenue, Glendale, CA 91204, US, on March 4, 2026, from 12:30 pm to 1:30 pm.

A Graveside Service will be held at Eternal Valley Memorial Park, 23287 N Sierra Hwy, Newhall, CA 91321, on March 4, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 3:30 pm.