Obituary of Garo Bedross Hazarian

Garo B. Hazarian passed away peacefully at home in Denville, N.J. with his wife at his side. His loving heart, witty sense of humor and kind soul will be dearly missed. 

Garo was born in Essex County, NJ to Vartkes Hazarian and Elise Hazarian (Malkonian).  He grew up in Maplewood and later moved to Denville. He was a graduate of Seton Hall University where he obtained his Bachelor and Master’s degrees.  Prior to college he served his country in the United States Navy Seabees during the Korean War.  For thirty years Garo worked in education as a teacher and director of guidance in the Mountain Lakes Public Schools.  Upon his retirement he continued to be involved by coaching the Mountain Lakes Freshman Football Team.

In his free time, Garo enjoyed fishing and riding his motorcycle, as well as, playing saxophone in his band. Garo enjoyed traveling.  Some of his favorite destinations were the Canadian Rockies, Russia and Ireland. 

One of the most seminal events of his life was becoming a heart transplant recipient in 1995 at Beth Israel Medical Center.  He paid it forward in many ways through his dedication to organ donation awareness volunteer work.  His strong heart shone through all aspects of life.

He leaves happy memories to Eleanor Hazarian (Long), his beloved wife of 38 years and his relatives and friends.  Many of his dear friends’ children and grandchildren became his family, as did his nurse angel friends.

A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, September 9, 2017 at Drew University Chapel, 36 Madison Avenue, Madison, N.J. 07940.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, Foundation Transplant Fund, 201 Lyons Ave., Newark, NJ 07112 or New Jersey Sharing Network, 691 Central Ave., New Providence, NJ 07974.