John Kazarosian, 88, World War II Veteran

John Kazarosian, 88, of Atkinson, N.H. and Salisbury, passed  at his home Wednesday evening, March 25, surrounded by his family. He was the devoted companion of more than 40 years of Joan Fontaine of Salisbury.

Born in Haverhill, January 12, 1927, he was the son of the late Dekran and Hamest (Arabian) Kazarosian and was a graduate of Haverhill High School, Class of 1944. After his military service, Kazarosian went on to graduate from Boston University in 1968, receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering.

Affectionately know as “Kaz,” he was a life member of both the American Legion and the VFW. Kazarosian was an Army veteran of World War II, serving in the Pacific with the Occupation Forces in Japan. He later returned to the military, joining the US Navy during the Korean Conflict and later retiring from the Navy. He was very active at Wilbur M. Comeau Post 4 and The American Legion in Haverhill. For more than 20 years he was the post treasurer as well as manager of the member’s lounge/function hall. Kazarosian was also the master of ceremonies for the Haverhill Memorial Day and Veterans Day programs for many years. He also participated in many veterans events that were held in Haverhill throughout the years.

He had worked more than 32 years at General Electric in Lynn in their aeronautic division. He was a longtime member of the Order of Eastern Star, first with Fidelity Chapter in Haverhill and, for the past 20 years, with Friendship Chapter of Amesbury, where he had served as past patron for several years as well as marshall and auditor.

In addition to his lifelong companion, Joan Fontaine, he is survived by several generations of nieces and nephews including Michelle Rosa and husband Dominick of Northborough and many dear friends.

Visiting hours at the Paul C. Rogers Family-Carnevale Funeral Home, 334 Main Street, Haverhill, will be Sunday, March 29, from noon to 2 p.m., immediately followed by Eastern Star services at 2, and funeral services. Interment will be private for the family.