ANC-WR: Larry Zarian’s legacy will continue to serve generations of Armenians

PanARMENIAN.Net - The Armenian National Committee of America-Western Region, through its Board of Directors, local chapters, as well as all its members, mourns the passing of Larry Zarian, a true Armenian-American leader and advocate, and offers condolences to his family, friends and the entire Armenian-American community.

Larry Zarian was the first Armenian-American to be elected to the Glendale City Council at a time when Glendale was a burgeoning haven for Armenians. During his 16 years on the Glendale City Council, where he also served as Mayor, Zarian was instrumental in leading the charge to make Glendale the jewel of Southern California. More important, he became an outspoken voice for Armenian-Americans and their aspirations in what was to become the largest concentration of Armenians outside Armenia.

Zarian always led by example. His conduct and demeanor were worthy of praise, and his advocacy on behalf of the Armenian-American community was exemplary, ANC-WR said in a statement.

He bridged long-time Glendale residents with the new Armenian population and as the influx expanded and grew, he became a critical conduit for advancing dialogue and creating positive change in Glendale community life.

Zarian’s active participation in civic life set the stage for others to follow and an become integral part of the city and beyond. The new crop of Armenian-Americans seeking public office always looked to Zarian for guidance and leadership.

Especially commendable was his close working relationship with the ANCA-WR and its local Glendale Chapter, which honored him last year with the ANC-Glendale Leadership Award during its annual banquet. Throughout the years, he remained selfless in his efforts to advocate for the advancement of the Armenian Cause by assisting our organization on local, state, regional and national levels.

His advocacy on behalf of all aspects of the Armenian Cause did not cease when his tenure ended at the Glendale City Council. In fact, he became an even more integral force in the community by mentoring future generations of Armenians and guiding them toward effective advocacy and public service all while remaining visible and active in community life.

Zarian will be missed not only from the public stage, but also from the ANCA family. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to serve many generations of Armenians to come, ANC-WR said.