John Tekirian

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John Tekirian on July 22, 2025, at the age of 90. John is survived by his children Melanie (Dillon Wu) and Stephen (Nicole); his grandchildren Rebecca Wu, Abbie Tekirian, Lindsey Tekirian and Nathan Tekirian. John is predeceased by his loving wife of 58 years, Diane (nee Liebel); his parents, Rebecca (nee Zartarian) and Simon Tekirian; his sister and brother in-law, Nanette (nee Tekirian) and Aram Bashian.

John grew up in Washington Heights in Manhattan, the child of immigrants, and survivors of the Armenian genocide.

John was a caring, gentle and funny man. He loved to laugh and tell jokes and do the occasional magic trick. John had lifelong friends going as far back to his teen years in NYC and from every stage of life and affiliation. He was loyal and dependable, empathetic and caring.

He absolutely adored his wife, Diane, and was a loving and supportive father to his children.

Throughout his adult life, John was involved in various philanthropic organizations, like the Emerson Men’s Club and the Optimist club. He especially enjoyed the friends he made, in addition to the good deeds. John served in various volunteer positions at Holy Trinity Church over nearly half a century as a parishioner. He actively supported his wife, Diane, in all of her philanthropic endeavors.

John attended New York University for his undergraduate studies, where he earned a bachelor's degree in Economics, and the University of Illinois, where he earned a master’s degree in Industrial & Labor Relations.

John had a long and successful career first at CBS and then McGraw-Hill where he worked in personnel and human resources. He retired from his position of Director of Compensation for McGraw-Hill in 1997.

The family will receive guests at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Road, Westwood, NJ on Sunday, July 27th from 2-6PM. A Celebration Of Life and Faith will be held at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Hillsdale, NJ on Monday, July 28th at 11AM with interment at Valleau Cemetery in Ridgewood, NJ to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in John's name to Unicef for Armenia @ Unicef.org/armenia/en/donate or Hilarity for Charity @ wearehfc.org/give/