John J. Markarian

The Rev. Dr. John J. Markarian, of West Pittston, died June 29, 2021. He celebrated his 104^th birthday on June 7.

He was born in Windham, N.Y., a son of the late Jacob and Dora (Euth) Markarian. He was a graduate of Lafayette College and Princeton Divinity School. He later served on the faculty at Lafayette College. He was an ordained Presbyterian minister, and earned a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Theology from Drew University.

The Rev. Dr. Markarian was the founding president of Haigazian University in Beirut, Lebanon. An account of his years there is related in his memoir, “The Thirsty Enemy.” He and his wife, Inge later moved to California and eventually to West Pittston where they have resided the last 34 years.

He leaves his wife, Inge, of 47 years; his daughter, Joanne Kubler, of Los Angeles; his grandson, Michael Kubler and his wife, Kathryn, and great grandchildren, Gabriel and Ari, of Sydney, Australia.

A celebration of John’s life will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations, if desired, may be made to the Armenian Missionary Association of America, AMAA, 31 W. Century Rd. Paramus NJ 07652, benefitting the Dr. John J. Markarian Scholarship Fund designated to Haigazian University in Beirut, Lebanon.

Arrangements are by the Howell-Lussi Funeral Home Inc., at 509 Wyoming Avenue in West Pittston.

Online Condolences can be left at our website at Howelllussi.com.