Carnig Terzian

Carnig is survived by his loving wife Rose, Diane and Ara Ekizian, Richard and Francine Terzian, Patricia Dominguez–Ayo and Dennis Ayo, 9 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren and he was ‘Uncle Carnig’ to numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews, all of whom he adored.

He was raised in the legendary ‘Brooklyn House’ with his dear sister Madeline, great grandmother, father, aunts, uncles and many treasured cousins. The early loss of his mother was a notable part of the formation of his determined and bonding character. After high school, Carnig became a lithographer working during WWII in Washington D.C. printing maps for the U.S. government war effort. His aspirations to join the Air Force were overridden by the government’s need for his skills in lithography. He continued working in lithography for many years in New York then California, as pressman supervisor printing high quality material for LIFE magazine, Reader’s Digest, fine art prints, movie posters and secure traveler’s checks. Real estate in California soon became a compelling incentive to be independent of an employer, as landlord and property manager over multiple apartment buildings and shopping centers.

Carnig met Alice Jamadanian in New York where their marriage was blessed with children Diane and Richard. The family enjoyed Catskill summers with extended family and trips to visit family in Michigan and California. He had a life changing arm injury at work when he was 41 and against all odds continued to meet every obstacle with the perseverance of a survivor. After the family was grown, Carnig and Alice moved to join family and friends in California, Michigan, then finally retiring to Florida where they were active participants from the beginnings of St. Hagop Armenian Church of Pinellas Park, Florida. Carnig’s dear wife, Alice passed away in 1989 after 45 years of marriage.

Carnig was so fortunate to find love again with his beloved Rose Malfara of 28 years. They had a long and happy marriage enjoying precious time with their shared Tower Isle and church communities and extensive travel. He also inherited an amazing daughter, Trish, and her wonderful, loving family. Time with Rose and celebrations with family and friends were his lifeblood.

Carnig had a wide range of interests over the years. He enjoyed photography, collecting books and various items that he wanted to know more about and share with others. Whether it was joyful times with grandchildren helping them build a tree house, hiking or fishing, playing cards, chess, backgammon or Yahtzee, time spent with the younger generations was important to him. Carnig felt compelled to give of himself and get involved in any situation where he saw a need. He stressed the importance of good health saying, ‘take care of your body’. He encouraged curiosity and appreciation of nature having taken many road trips to see the USA’s wonders and being a National Geographic and Popular Science collector. Carnig was a DIY guy, fixing anything that was broken from cars to electrical or plumbing, ‘McGivering’ a solution. Most of all, he was a people person, enjoying their company, offering to help, giving love and affection and thriving on its return to him. He never met a stranger. At the end of the day, there was always the divine joy of seeing another glorious sunset.

97 Remarkable Years!

Carnig will be missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Memorial Donations may be made to St. Hagop Armenian Church, 7020 90th Ave. N, Pinellas Park, FL 33782 or a Charity of your choice.