John Arsenian

Hovannes (John) Bedros Arsenian (Յովհաննէս Պետրոս Արսէնեան) born on October 12, 1935, in Beirut, Lebanon to Arshalouis Arsenian-Mahserejian (Shahinian) and Bedros Arsenian. On January 30, 2022, John passed away surrounded by loved ones in his home located in Federal Way, Washington.

 

He is survived by his children, Tracy (Mark) Williams, Lance (Penny) Arsenian, grandchildren Haley Henson, Mikayla Arsenian, Kyle Williams, and Jack Arsenian, great-grandchild Lina, and many nieces and nephews.

 

John was a proud Armenian. He is a direct descendant of Armenian genocide survivors. Both sides of his family were forced to relocate from Kharpert, Western Armenia to Aleppo, Syria and other countries for refuge. His family taught him the importance to learn their history, culture, and traditional way of life. John lived most of his childhood and teenage years living in Aleppo learning how to drive trucks, fix cars, and playing professional soccer as a goalkeeper. 

 

While attending university in Beirut, John received the opportunity to continue his education in America and move in with his grandfather, John Arsenian, living in Sioux City, Iowa. At the age of 18, John made the courageous decision to move to a new country and reunite with his grandfather. As John navigated his new life in America, he met Lois Hoffman at a local skating rink. It was love at first sight, and they never spent a day apart after meeting. On September 1st, 1955, John and Lois married. 

 

In the Summer of 1957, John and Lois relocated to Federal Way, Washington. They raised their two children and enjoyed taking family skiing and camping trips. To gain his citizenship, John joined the Army to train soldiers how to drive heavy machinery. Then, John spent the next 61 years as a driver for Seattle city buses, Garrett Freightlines, and King County waste management. He was the longest and oldest Teamster ever. In his free time, John loved boating, fishing, watching NASCAR, and spending time with his family. 

 

Our family is overwhelmed in peace knowing John has reunited with all his loved ones that have crossed over. May his soul live in eternal peace. Աստված հոգին լուսավորի.