Rose Assadourian

Rose Assdourian, age 78, of Fresno, California, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, surrounded by the love of her entire family. A devoted matriarch, gifted athlete, Rose was a relentless supporter of her family. She immigrated to Fresno from Soviet Armenia in 1975, building a lasting legacy of generosity and kindness. Her champion heart and sweet spirit uplifted everyone who crossed her path.

Born on December 2, 1947, in Nicosia, Cyprus, to Berj and Andighoni Minasian, Rose was a standout academic and track champion in her youth. While attending Nicosia’s highly prestigious Melkonian, an elite international preparatory school, she demonstrated such extraordinary athletic prowess that she competed in the Olympic trials, successfully qualifying for the international games in Beirut, Lebanon, in 1963. Her remarkable track record remained undefeated for decades.

In December of 1975, she moved to America, permanently settling in Fresno, California.

She worked relentlessly to establish her family in a new country and constantly encouraged them to make the best of their lives. She was an incredible mom, daughter, sister, aunt, and a fierce, unwavering supporter of everyone and every dream placed before her. An extraordinary cook, she always brought people together with a plate presentation that made every family gathering a celebration. Above all, she loved her family fiercely.

Rose leaves behind a legacy of love and is survived by her daughters, Teresa Sophocleous, and her cherished grandchildren, Stavro, Artemis, and Stefanos Sophocleous.; Ardemis Piro, her husband Romeo, and her precious granddaughters, London and Presley Piro. Her memory will forever be treasured by her sisters, Mayda Hekimian, and her husband, Avak; Mary Keshishian, her husband, Alex, and her brother, Nshan Minasian. Rose also leaves behind a generation of deeply loved nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will all carry her kind heart with them forever.

Funeral Services to honor her memory will be held on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 10 AM at

St. George Greek Orthodox Church, located at 2219 N. Orchard St, Fresno, 93703

To celebrate Rose’s life, the family kindly asks that you consider simply paying it forward with an unexpected act of kindness.