Samuel Kazarian

WORCESTER-Samuel Kazarian, 92, of Worcester passed away, Saturday, February 18 at his home.

His wife of 64 years, Margaret (Jamgochian) died in 2018.  He leaves a daughter, Michelle and son in law, Mark Chestna of West Boylston; two granddaughters; Ariana and Alexandra Chestna, a grandson; Blake Chestna and his fiancee, Caroline Norris; a great granddaughter, Noa Alexandra Chestna. 

Sam was born in Worcester, son of  Maljan and Tarvaz (Aslanian) Kazarian. He is predeceased by three sisters; Mary Goshgarian, Helen Nishanian and Sadie Takvorian. He graduated from Worcester Boys Trade School in 1948. He was a US Navy Veteran of the Korean War and served on the USS Waccamaw until 1952. 

Sam was the owner and operator for 64 years of Sam’s Barber Shop on Chandler Street. Upon retiring in 2016, he was presented the key to the city by the Mayor of Worcester in a ceremony at City Hall, being called an icon in the community for more than half a century. He loved his career and the social aspect it brought to his life. 

He was an avid golfer and a member of the Hye Hackers golf group for many decades.  A longtime fan of the New York Yankees, in 1948 he hitchhiked from Worcester to New York to attend Babe Ruth’s funeral. He enjoyed playing poker and trips to the casino with his wife, Marge. In his earlier years, he enjoyed vacations in Atlantic City with extended family, especially his three nieces and nephew. Aside from his sharp mind and boundless energy, he was best known for his contagious laughter, storytelling and living life as only he could. 

Visiting Hours are Tuesday, February 28 from 10:00am until 11:00 am at the Armenian Church of Our Saviour, 87 Salisbury St., with a funeral service to follow at 11:00am. Burial services will be private. Funeral arrangements are in the care of Callahan, Fay & Caswell Funeral Home, 61 Myrtle St., Worcester. In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial donations be made to the Armenian Church of Our Saviour, 87 Salisbury St., Worcester, MA 01609 or the Veterans Administration at www.newengland.va.gov/giving/index.asp