Ara Sarkis Nersesian

Ara Sarkis Nersesian, 93, of Naples, FL passed into eternal rest on June 9, 2022 at home surrounded by his loving family. Ara was born in 1928 in Aleppo, Syria to the late Sarkis and Marie (Yenovkian) Nersesian. He is survived by his devoted wife of 68 years, Lita (Bedrosian) Nersesian and his sons John (Lucine) Nersesian of Wilmette, IL, Ronald (Maria) Nersesian of Santa Rosa, CA, and Lisa (Sean) Richardson of Shaker Heights, OH. He was predeceased by his sisters Madeleine, Mathilde, Shake and brother Raffi. He adored his seven grandchildren Matthew (Marie), Daniel, Sonia, John, Lena, Margaux, and Christopher. He loved his mother-in-law, sisters and brothers-in-law, and his many nieces and nephews.

Ara's life was centered around his family and in joyfully serving the Armenian Apostolic Church, and believed that "as we so give to the world, the world will give to us". As a youth, Ara attended Armenian Catholic school, participated Armenian scouts and other youth organizations in Aleppo. He met his beloved Lita at an Armenian dance in NYC and together they raised their three children in the tight-knit parish of St. Mary's Armenian Church of Livingston NJ. He made many friends and embraced many roles in the church, including leading Parish Council, singing in the Choir, representing St. Mary's as Diocesan Delegate for 40 years, and serving as Chairman of the Annual Assembly. He had deep gratitude and admiration for the devoted clergy and cherished special trips to Armenia and to the Holy Land. Ara felt truly thankful for the religious freedom and many opportunities of becoming a naturalized citizen of this wonderful country and often commented he was ‘happy’ to pay his taxes!

Ara followed in his father's footsteps with a long and successful career in Pharmacology, beginning as a youth at the Nersesian Pharmacy in Aleppo. While attending American University of Beirut he received his sponsorship papers and came to the United States to complete his undergraduate degree at St. John's University and master’s degree at Columbia University. He enjoyed a successful, 30+ year career at Bristol-Myers Squibb, as Director of Research and Development, and later as Director of External Development. Always a chemist, his office and home were well stocked with a complete array of potions and products!

Ara loved learning and deeply valued education as the key to self-sufficiency and prosperity. His bookshelves overflowed with newspapers, books and tools for learning new languages, managing health, understanding investment strategies, exploring Armenian culture, and many other topics. He loved going to the library and also researching on the internet new remedies or interesting articles for family and friends. He and Lita were blessed to have many opportunities to travel extensively for both leisure and work.

Anyone meeting Ara would know that he truly loved life. He was the life of the party and connected with all those he met- friends, acquaintances, strangers and even animals- always with an encouraging spirit, smile and sense of humor. He loved preparing puzzles and telling jokes at gatherings. He was a skilled photographer and captured many wonderful moments through his prolific and creative shots. A sharp dresser and a gentleman in all ways, Ara loved and often gifted delicious fragrances to friends and family. He and Lita created an elegant home filled with generous hospitality, fine dining and beautiful music. As a devoted and proud father, he went to great lengths to continuously encourage his children and grandchildren and their accomplishments. One could easily sense his deep care and concern during meaningful conversations that often were accompanied by a ‘good cup of strong coffee’ and humor. He never hesitated to share his gratitude for things big or small, whether in person or with a beautifully composed letter or card; his heart was full.

For those wishing to do so, donations in lieu of flowers can be made in memory of Ara to St. Mary Armenian Church Endowment Fund, 200 W. Mt. Pleasant Avenue, Livingston, NJ 07039