George K Markarian

George K. Markarian, 85, formerly of Worcester, a proud retired Worcester Fire Fighter, passed away peacefully Monday, January 22, 2024, with loved ones gathered at his side.  

George was born in Worcester, the son of Harry and Sarah (Hovsepian) Markarian.  Raised in Worcester George graduated from Commerce High School.  George was appointed to the Worcester Fire Department on April 6, 1970 serving at several stations including Headquarters on Grove Street, Central Division, Park Ave, Worcester Airport, and Tatnuck Square.  He was also a member of the Fire Department Scuba Team and Rescue Squad before retiring on February 20, 1997.   

George is survived by four devoted children; two sons, Harry Markarian and his life partner, Martha Gannon of Shrewsbury, Dean Markarian and his wife Lindsay of Barrington, RI; two daughters, Cindie Markarian of Auburn, MA, Renee Moore and her husband Justin of Middletown,  CT; two sisters, Marion Magarian of North Kingston RI, and Helen Andonian of Bedford, NH; nine grandchildren; three great grandchildren;  Many nieces, nephews, extended family and his fellow firefighters.  He was predeceased by his parents and beloved sister Anna Garavanian.   

George was a member of the International Firefighters Union, local 1009 and the Worcester Firefighters Relief.  When not on duty, he spent most of his time behind the wheel of his many beloved vehicles where he was free to roam and socialize throughout the backroads of Worcester and Boston.   His methods of transport truly embodied his personality: muscle cars, firetrucks, Knight’s limousines and, yes, his Prius (he really believed it cost him nothing to drive!).

In his younger days he enjoyed racquetball, swimming, scuba diving and hanging out at the “Y”.  He remained fit from all this activity which afforded him the luxury of focusing on his other passions as he slowed down: movies, television, maple walnut ice cream and resting in a comfy recliner.  But most of all he cherished spending time with his grandchildren, his family, and his many friends.  Whether in person or on the phone he always had a hilarious story to tell with a surprising twist that kept you in stiches - which only he could get away with telling in his own unique way.

One of his most recognized traits was his affection for food where quantity mattered more than quality.  The mystery of where he put it all will go with him to the grave, but his justification until the end was that in the fire department you had to eat fast.  He was a charmer who was cringeworthy. A sinner and a saint. You might have known him as George, Georgie, Marco, or Popcorn, but if you knew him you knew he was one of a kind with a heart of gold.  It’s impossible to tell a “George” story to anyone of any age without cracking a smile.  It was his gift, his specialty, and his legacy which we are all blessed to have been part of.  With his passing, there is no doubt there are somber days ahead of us…but his ability to make us smile will carry on thanks to the memories he provided, the countless stories we will share and the recollection of his eternally contagious laugh!

A period of calling hours will be held Monday, January 29th from 9:30 am to 11:00 am in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. followed by a funeral service. His brother-in-law, Deacon Avedis Garavanian will be principal Celebrant.  Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers memorial remembrances in his name can be made to the Worcester Fire Relief Association, care of the Worcester Fire Credit Union, Glennie St Worcester.