Zadig Yeprem Setian

Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Zadig Y. Setian, 89, died on July 4, 2015, at WindsorMeade, Williamsburg, VA, with his devoted wife of 64 years, Lucille, by his side. “Zad,” as he was affectionately known, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of those he most adored—his children and grandchildren. Just as he lived his life, Zad departed this world with quiet dignity, his final gift to us the memory of his beautiful smile.

Zad was born and raised in Indian Orchard, MA, to a family of first-generation Armenians. While enrolled at American International College, he enlisted in the U.S. Army and was selected to attend Officer Candidate School. Quickly ascending in rank, Zad led a platoon into Germany during the latter stages of World War II. After returning to Massachusetts and finishing college, he decided to make the military his career, which spanned 25 years.

During that time, Zad was awarded the Bronze Star and Legion of Merit while serving as a military intelligence officer. He also served in Korea and at the Pentagon before retiring in 1967. Zad went on to have a successful business career as a senior executive with Booz, Allen & Hamilton and The Bank Administration Institute. Wherever he went, he was beloved by all.

Zad spoke five languages fluently, was an avid golfer, and dabbled in stained glass design. A talented woodworker, he enjoyed building custom planter boxes and bluebird houses for his family and friends. Zad will always be remembered as the consummate gentleman, whose kind nature and gentle wisdom touched everyone he met.

Zad was pre-deceased by his parents, Yeprem and Aravag Setian, his brother, Zohrab, and his sister, Ann. He is survived by his wife, Lucille, children, Jenise Setian (partner, Stan Williams), Jude Setian-Marston (husband, John), Richard Setian (wife, Lisa), grandchildren, Natalie and Kara Marston, and Andrew and Cameron Setian, and brother, Karagin (wife, Bunny) Setian.

The family would like to express our sincere thanks to Zad’s medical teams from Sentara Hospital and Hospice, Virginia Oncology Associates, and his exceptional caregivers from Agape Home Care.

A celebration of Zad’s life will be held on Friday, July 17, 2015, from 1-2:30 PM at WindsorMeade Ballroom, 3900 Windsor Hall Drive, Williamsburg, VA 23188.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project — www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

Online condolences may be offered at www.nelsencares.com.