Iskont Kalpakjian

Resident of Discovery Bay, California

May 1, 1937- September 1, 2011

Iskont Kalpakjian passed away early Thursday at home. He was born on May 1, 1937 in Istanbul, Turkey to Norayr Kalpakjian and Pepron Andreasian Kalpakjian. He was married to his childhood sweetheart, Rejan Kayaer on October 30, 1960 and they celebrated their 50th anniversary last year in San Francisco with family and friends. Theirs was a deep and abiding love.

Iskont is also survived by his two devoted children, Norayr (Elizabeth) and Tanya (Willy) and four grandchildren, Nadege, Sofia, Elizabeth and Sevan. Though the last few months could have been dominated by his cancer, he chose to spend special times with Rejan, his children and especially his grandchildren. He delighted in their antics and they adored him.

Iskont, also known as John, touched many lives with his remarkable spirit. He loved telling stories of his childhood, his time in the army, his travels with Rejan. He brought his family to San Francisco in 1969. There he worked at The Fairmont Hotel and the Iron Horse Restaurant on Maiden Lane. From 1980 until 1996, Iskont owned and operated his own restaurant, Tanya’s, with the help of his wife and his children. He was a wonderful host and raconteur. For the last 22 years, Iskont was a proud member of the staff of the Bella Vista restaurant, bringing his infectious smile and spirit to his job each night.

Friends may call from 9:15 a.m.-10:00 a.m. at St. Vartan Armenian Apostolic Church in Oakland and the funeral service will follow immediately at the church. After the service, burial will be at The Union Cemetery, 11545 Brentwood Boulevard, Brentwood, California.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Kaiser Hospice, 200 Muir Road, Martinez CA 94553 or St. Vartan Armenian Orphanage Fund, 650 Spruce Street, Oakland CA 94610.

Arrangements under the direction of Brentwood Funeral Home, Brentwood, CA.