The Eastern Diocese was deeply saddened by the passing of longtime church leader Clement Ashekian, who passed away peacefully on October 1, surrounded by his children and family, shortly after turning 90.
A native of Philadelphia, where his family was extremely active in the Armenian Church, Clement was a remarkable man who combined practical, hands-on knowledge as an engineer with the deepest religious conviction. These fine qualities came together in a warm, affectionate personality that made Clement a beloved figure throughout our community. He was deeply involved with St. George Church in Hartford, CT (where he served as a longtime Diocesan delegate, among many other roles); with St. Vartan Cathedral and the Eastern Diocese; and with almost any Armenian cause that reached out in personal ways to help people in need.
Clement undertook every role of life side by side with his dear wife, Julia. Their unique relationship spanned six decades: from their meeting at an ACYOA function in 1952, until Julia’s untimely passing in 2014. The Ashekians were true soulmates: people whose lives had been guided in some mysterious way towards each other. Their accomplishments were many; but whatever they set their minds to do, they accomplished together, as true partners. Their example will be remembered as a beautiful example of the richness of the Christian sacrament of marriage.
The most touching service they rendered was to the orphaned children in our homeland. The Children of Armenian Sponsorship Program, or CASP, was founded through the Eastern Diocese’s Women’s Guild Central Council, to address the humanitarian disaster of the 1988 Armenian earthquake. But its heart and soul belonged to Julie and Clement, through their constant work, their communication with the sponsors, and their frequent trips back and forth to Armenia to see the sponsored orphans.
After leading CASP through the 1990s and into the new century, the Ashekians’ next project was Mer Doon: a haven where now-grown orphan girls could be protected and encouraged while they built new lives for themselves.
For all these exemplary efforts, the Ashekians received the congratulations and honors of our community, including the St. Nersess Shorhali Medal, bestowed on Clement and Julia by His Holiness Karekin I.
In a life of significant accomplishment and countless friendships, Clem’s most powerful love was always directed towards his family. As mentioned, Julie predeceased him in 2014; but he is survived by their children, Caryn and her husband Michael LaPointe, and Stephen and his wife Noël, as well as grandchildren Alex, Nicole, and Drew, along with many nieces and nephews. We pray for their consolation in this time of grief.
Funeral services for Clement Ashekian took place on Monday, October 6, 2025, at St. George Church of Hartford. In-lieu-of-flowers donations may be made to St. George Armenian Church (22 White St., Hartford, CT).
The family has also written a memorial tribute to Clem’s life of accomplishment, dedication, and grace, which appears below.
May our risen Lord Jesus bless the soul of His servant, and receive Clement Ashekian into His eternal kingdom.
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Clement Ashekian (1935-2025)
Born on September 19, 1935 in Philadelphia, PA, Clement was the son of Joseph and Haigouhi Ashekian, originally from Kharpert. From humble beginnings, he carried a deep passion for his Armenian heritage while also pursuing the American dream.
Clement met the love of his life, Julia Garabedian, at an Armenian dance. The two soon married and settled in Kensington, CT, where they raised their family. Clement worked as a bank teller by day while attending the University of Hartford at night, eventually earning a degree in engineering. He went on to build a distinguished career at IBM as a senior engineer, where he remained for 34 years.
Engineering was not only his profession, but also a gift he shared with others. Whether repairing cars, installing heating or cooling systems, or tackling electrical and plumbing work, Clement could do it all. His generous spirit meant he was always ready to lend his skills to family, friends, and anyone in need. He was truly the go-to person in every circle of his life.
Clement’s dedication extended far beyond his home. A devoted member of the Armenian Church, he served for many years as parish council chairman at St. George Armenian Church in Hartford, and as a Diocesan delegate at the national level.
Following the devastating earthquake in Armenia in 1988, Clement and Julie devoted themselves to helping children who had been orphaned. Together, they established several orphanages that became home to nearly 9,000 children. Their efforts touched countless lives, and generations continue to thrive today because of what Clement and Julia helped create.
At home, Clement’s greatest joy was his own family. He was a constant presence—always available to listen, to guide, and to teach. His wisdom and warmth left an imprint on everyone he encountered.
Beyond his love of family, friends, and church, Clement’s personal passion was racquetball. An accomplished player, he competed well into his 70s, often besting opponents half his age. In recognition of his achievements, the first racquetball court built in America—in New Britain, CT—was named in his honor.
Clement was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, mentor, and friend. He will be deeply missed, but his family and community take comfort in knowing he is once again reunited with his beloved Julia. He is survived by his children, Caryn and her husband Michael LaPointe, his son Stephen and his wife Noël, as well as his cherished grandchildren, Alex, Nicole, and Drew, along with many nieces and nephews.