Anthony John Markarian's Obituary
Anthony John Markarian, 89, of Decatur passed away on Saturday, February 14, 2015 at Eastview Terrace in Sullivan, Illinois.
Services to celebrate Anthony’s life will be 11 a.m. Thursday, February 19, 2015 at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. Visitation will be one hour prior to services. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery and conclude with military honors. Memorials may be directed to First United Methodist Church, or charity of donor’s choice.
Anthony was born December 22, 1925, in Chicago, Illinois , to Benjamin and Rose (Bitto) Markarian . He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. He earned two Bronze Stars and a Purple Heart as a Sergeant in the European Campaign during World War II. He earned bachelor degrees from McKendree and Northwestern Universities. Anthony furthered his education and earned his M.S. from University of Illinois. He married Wanda Jane Pownall on January 20, 1951 in Donnellson, Illinois. They shared sixty-four wonderful years together. He was a chemistry instructor for thirty-seven years, most of these at Stephen Decatur High School. He was a member of First United Methodist Church. He enjoyed spending time with his family, camping, fishing, gardening, and he loved animals.
He is survived by his wife, Wanda Jane Markarian of Decatur, IL; two sons, Keith (Debra) Markarian of Decatur, IL, Jeffrey (Bruce Vair) Markarian of Rochester, NY; two daughters, Kathy (Brent) Shelton of Rock Hill, SC, Jennifer (David) Reuland of Issaquah, WA; brother, John (Agnes) Markarian of Redmond, WA; granddaughter, Sarah Jane (Daniel) Shelton-Whinghter of Perth, Western Australia; and a host of nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
The family of Anthony John Markarian is being served by Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Avenue, Decatur, IL. View the on line obituary and send condolences to the family at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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