Obituary of Ani Kelejian-Esayan

Ani Kelejian Esayan was born in Üsküdar, Istanbul to Yetvart (Der Asoghik) and Anjel (Emirhanyan) Kilicciyan. She was the tremendously cherished first grandchild for both sets of grandparents. She attended Nersessian-Yermonian primary school. When Der Asoghik was assigned to St. Illuminator’s Cathedral in the late 1950’s the family moved to New York City, where she lived until her passing. She graduated from Jamaica High School, then received her Bachelor of Arts from the Fashion Institute of Technology. She pursued a career in fashion design until her first child, Varand, was born. She was fluent in Armenian, Turkish, and English. After the birth of Varand, she began translating and interpreting for law firms, medical offices, and state and federal courts. She did this until her final days. Ani strongly believed in the importance of education, and strived to instill that in her children. She was an active supporter of Holy Martyrs Language School. After the events of September 11, 2001, she was elected as a board member of her daughter's (Nairi’s) middle school, and also served on Mayor Bloomberg's Education Task Force. Ani was highly involved in the Armenian Community. She taught Sunday School at the original St. Sarkis on Bell Boulevard. She also taught Armenian language classes at St. Vartan Cathedral, and Khrimian Jemaran, to all levels, from elementary aged school children through adults. She was also a bright presence in the St. Vartan seniors group where she entertained the members and performed short plays. As a young adult, Ani participated in seven productions with Hamazkayin Theatrical Group where she also served on the executive committee. Ani was full of warmth and love for her children, relatives, and friends. She loved to entertain. Most who knew her have a fond memory of a favorite dish she made or shared. Most recently, during sleepovers, she’d share her morning banana with her first grandson, Sahag, and later in the day varungs (cucumbers), and popcorn with both grandchildren. Ani was the beloved wife of Kevork Esayan; mother of Varand Michael Esayan, and Nairi Esayan and her husband Gregg Hagopian; grandmother of Sahag Setrak and Aram Zkon Hagopian; sister of Arpi Bekian and her husband Edward; aunt of Ari Bekian, and Adam Bekian and his wife Jessica, and great aunt of their children. She is also survived by her extended family, both in the United States and in Istanbul. Աստուած հոգին լուսաւորէ: Ani, we hope you’re eating lobster in a café with your favorite people. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the St. Sarkis Church Summer Camp Program.