Norman Vartanian Obituary - Stoney Creek, Ontario | Smith's Funeral Home
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Norman Vartanian
In Memory of
Norman Sarkis
Vartanian
1935 - 2017
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Obituary for Norman Sarkis Vartanian

Norman Sarkis  Vartanian
Vartanian, Norman Sarkis
Surrounded by his loving family, Norman Sarkis Vartanian peacefully passed away on Tuesday September 19, 2017 in his 82nd year at the Emmanuel House. He will be endearingly remembered and missed by his wife Isabelle and his children, Kim, Stavros, Steve, Sara and Hazen (Lisa). He was an adored Dede to his grandchildren, Tassos, Stefani, Sarkis, Arsen, Nathan, Matty, Luke, Elizabeth, Ani, Andreus and Landon (Lolo). He was also a treasured great grandfather to Stavros. He is survived by his sisters-in-law, Nevart, Jean, Sonya and Jane. Also survived by his brother-in-law, Richard. Norman was predeceased by his parents, Ohannes and Hannum Vartanian and his siblings, Vahan, Arshavir (Alice), Aghavni (Sirabion), Iskoui (Haigas), Armenhuoi (Missak), Martin and Arsen. He will be missed by his many nephews, nieces, friends and business colleagues. Norm was born in Athens, Greece on August 25, 1935. He survived World War II and the Greek Civil War before immigrating to Canada in 1951 as a young lad. Once in Canada, Norm was quick to learn the tile setting trade, but his entrepreneurial spirit drove him to co-found Vartanian Rugs with his brother Martin. That same spirit also led the two brothers to expand into the culinary industry, as they opened up the El Greco Steakhouse restaurant in Hamilton. Later on, he became avidly involved in the harness racing industry with his wife and partner Isabelle. Norm was very proud of his Armenian heritage, and in his youth, could often be found performing with his band at Armenian dances and picnics. He was a man who led by example and his resilience, strong work ethic, positive attitude and joy for life were lessons for all of us. His life motto was, “Eight hours of rest, eight hours of work, eight hours of play and most importantly, DON’T EVER LIE.” In the end, his courage to fight for his life was inspiring to all who surrounded him. We will always be grateful to Norm for giving us a legacy of courage, strength, love and laughter. He made a difference to all that knew him. Many thanks to his medical team, the staff at the Juravinski Cancer Centre and the staff at the Emmanuel House for all of their care, support and compassion. Family and friends are invited to attend visitation at Smith’s Funeral Home, 454 Highway #8 Stoney Creek on Saturday September 23, 2017 from 3:00-5:00 and 7:00-9:00 and Sunday September 24, 2017 from 6:00-9:00. Prayers on Sunday September 24 at 8:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home chapel on Monday September 25, 2017 at 1:00 p.m. Burial to follow at Eastlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Saint Vartan Armenian Church, Mississauga or Armenian Relief Society or Emmanuel House c/o Good Shepherd Centre would be appreciated.
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