Isaac Thomas Tufankjian

Isaac Thomas Tufankjian, 31, of Hillsdale, NJ, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2013 in his home. Isaac Thomas Tufankjian was born on April 18, 1982. He was a promised son, miracle baby, a gift from God to his family and friends. Isaac had a special kind of presence with him in spite of his limitations due to health. In 1999 at age 17, Isaac fought and conquered bone cancer.

He graduated from Pascack Valley High School in 2002. At this time he received the Senior Olympian Award, honoring him for high achievement and perseverance through great personal difficulties. Isaac then received a certification as a Registered Dental Assistant from Berdan Institute. Isaac went on to study at Bergen Community College where he received an associate degree in Applied Science in 2009. He was employed by Broadway Dental Associates in Westwood until his next challenge came in 2009 when another type of cancer set in. After treatment, Isaac volunteered at the John Theurer Cancer Center At HUMC to help other cancer victims.

He never showed bitterness or anger. He was fearless. Isaac could bear these difficulties and sufferings because he trusted His Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. His successes were a direct result of his faith. He always believed, no matter how he suffered, that God could still heal him. He loved to worship God. He was a humble Christian soldier.

He is survived by his loving parents, Tom and Elizabeth, his brother Tim and his wife Tara, his niece Taryn and many many loving family members and friends.

A viewing will be held on Friday, May 17th from 5pm to 8pm at the Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ, with a funeral service to follow from 8pm to 9pm. The burial will take place on Saturday, May 18th at 10am at Westwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of New Jersey, 1034 Salem Rd., Union, NJ 07083.