On Sunday, February 6, Holy Trinity Parish of Cheltenham, PA, had the great privilege of celebrating the 100th birthday of a life-long member of the parish. Marty Gutchigian is the first and only one to reach centenarian status. With over one hundred people in attendance, the party was lavishly co-hosted by both his family and the parish, making it a true family event – his birth family and his church family.
Pastor Fr. Hakob Gevorgyan shared an abbreviated biography of his long and varied background, which included Marty’s time in the U.S. Navy, beginning in 1942, when he served on the U.S.S. Tuscaloosa during World War II. Having been wounded twice, he was awarded a Purple Heart and the Victory Medal.
He is the father of seven children, all of whom were present to celebrate this rare kind of event.
To see and be around Marty, one would be surprised that they were seeing and talking with one who is 100 years old. His mind is sharp and active with current events, he still enjoys playing water volleyball and spending time near the ocean. He has an open and outgoing personality, and with his comedic nature, is always looking to help people laugh. One of his favorite pastimes is singing, and he didn’t disappoint when he took the mike and sang one of his favorite songs – “You’ll Never Walk Alone” – to a waiting audience, which ended with affirmative applause. (Click the link below to watch a recording.)
Marty – and all the guests – were also treated to musical performances by two young adult members of the parish. Sendi Vartanovi, who will soon be completing her undergraduate degree with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Performance, played two poignant Komitas pieces on the violin – Groong and Choghere – to the delight of all.
Following her, Stephan Sarkissian, a high school senior, performed amazingly and as professionally as someone more than twice his age and experience. His offerings included Oror by Barsegh Kanachyan (which he arranged); Waltz Op.64 No. 2 by Frederic Chopin; and Piano Sonata No.14 Op.27 Nr.2 by Ludwig Van Beethoven. Stephan will be off to college in the fall, pursuing a career in music.
It was a day for all to remember: to celebrate a 100-year-event; to be inspired by the upbeat and positive outlook of Marty; and to enjoy the shared fellowship which connects all of us through our heritage and our church.