Gregory SMYRLIAN Obituary

SMYRLIAN, Gregory Krikor In Loving Memory of Gregory Krikor Smyrlian

February 24, 1932 – May 24, 2024

On what would have been his 93rd birthday, we celebrate the life of Gregory Krikor Smyrlian, a beloved son, brother, father, musician, veteran and neighbor, whose presence and impact continue to be deeply felt.

Born in Boston, MA to Manook (Michael) and Sayni (Sonia) Smyrlian of Adana, Turkey, Greg was a man of many passions. He served in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955, during the Korean War, as an X-ray technician, earning a National Defense Service Medal while stationed at Fort MacArthur in San Pedro, CA. After his honorable discharge, he obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts from Boston University in 1960.

A musical enthusiast, Greg frequented the Armenian and Turkish music circles in the Boston area, often sitting in at Mideast Restaurant alongside renowned artists like Garo Papazian and John Berberian. He played violin, tabla and numerous other instruments.

His love of art extended beyond music-he worked as an Assistant Conservator at the William Hayes Fogg Art Museum at Harvard University (1960-1961), contributing to the restoration of Mark Rothko murals.

Greg spent most of his life in Revere and Lynn, where he was a well-known and respected neighbor. He took pride in maintaining the sidewalks, ensuring they were clear of leaves and snow year-round. He had a deep love for nature and animals, caring for stray cats, raccoons, possums and birds in his backyard. An avid cyclist, he cherished his Cannondale race bike and stayed active well into his later years.

An intellectual and lifelong learner, Greg was passionate about classical music, astronomy, science and current events. He was a dedicated NPR listener, though he stopped listening in protest following the recent Israel-Palestine conflict. Friends and family remember him for his sharp mind, honesty and deep curiosity, often sharing newfound knowledge with those around him.

Greg had a love for sports cars, from his 1971 Triumph TR7 to his 2019 Honda Civic Type-R, and maintained his realtor's license for many years. While he never married, he was always surrounded by friends and admirers, never shy about boasting that he could still charm women a third of his age.

He is survived by his sister, Marie Geranian of Florida; his son, Awan Nord of Costa Mesa, CA; and nephews, Gary of Wakefield, MA and Ben of Manchester, NH; nieces, Linda Fierst and Laura Coleman of Vancouver, WA; nephew, Vernon Barker of MS; and nieces, Maria Richardson of MD, Deborah Barker of TX and Teresa Johnson of NC.

He was predeceased by his siblings, Leo, Maxine and Sonia; and nephew, Russell Barker.

Gregory Smyrlian was laid to rest with Military Honors at Pine Grove Cemetery in Lynn, MA, in the Veterans of the Korean War section.

A memorial page has been established in his honor, at

https://www.vlm.cem.va.gov/GREGORYSMYRLIAN/56fa3c

He will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Rest in peace, Greg.