With deep regret, the Eastern Diocese mourns the loss of Stephen Scallen—longtime Diocesan leader and faithful benefactor of St. Sahag Church of St Paul, MN—who passed away on January 17, at age 91.
Steve and his wife Chacké were founding members of St. Sahag Church, where Steve served for many years as parish council chairman and Diocesan delegate. The Scallens were great benefactors of the parish and the Diocese, and Steve was admired for his down-to-earth kindness, wisdom, and generous spirit.
During the funeral service at St. Sahag Church on January 23, led by former pastor Fr. Tadeos Barseghyan, a letter from Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan was read, expressing the Primate’s condolences.
He wrote: “It was as a leader of St. Sahag Church—its longtime parish council chair and Diocesan delegate—that Steve was esteemed and loved in our Diocese. The life of this parish, its very scope and physical existence, would not be the same today without his generosity, dedicated leadership, and wise but always humble guidance. The Scallens’ loving generosity blessed the Armenian community of Minneapolis-St. Paul with a beautiful church; and their ongoing, tender service to the parish was an example to all. In these matters and more, Steve and Chacké were partners, sharing in both the savor of achievement as well as the sacrifices that make such achievement possible.
“In his big-hearted way, Steve Scallen reflected the finest qualities of leadership and service. And his quality of vision was exemplified in his reputation as a man you could count on; one who embodied decency and integrity, the noble values of America, and the virtues of Christian civilization. For these reasons and others, Steve was conferred with the ‘St. Gregory the Illuminator Medal,’ the highest award of the Armenian Church, bestowed by the Catholicos of All Armenians. I know it was an honor that deeply touched Steve. It was a well-deserved tribute to his heartfelt devotion to our Lord.”
Our sympathies and prayers go to Steve’s beloved wife of 60 years, Chacké; to their daughters Julie and Nora and their families; to numerous loved ones and the entire St. Sahag parish community. The family has asked that memorial donations be directed to St. Sahag Armenian Church.
May our Lord receive His servant Steve Scallen, and grant consolation to Steve’s loved ones in the days ahead.