Menands - Raffi Bardakjian, 62, died suddenly Friday, January 2, 2026, at his home.
Born in Aleppo, Syria, Raffi Bardakjian was the beloved son of the late Yervant Bardakjian and Rozina Manoukian Bardakjian, and the devoted husband of 23 years to Leeza Leone Karagulian Bardakjian. In 1986, Raffi moved to the United States with his family, settling in Troy before relocating to Menands in 2007.
Raffi was a self-employed construction worker for many years, known for his skill, precision, and strong work ethic. He also worked at Lowe’s and with Vehan’s Floor Covering, where his experience and dedication were greatly valued.
Raffi was a devoted man whose life was guided by faith, service, and love for his community. He dedicated many years to serving at the altar, offering his time and devotion with humility and deep reverence. His commitment to the church was not only an act of faith, but a reflection of the values he lived by every day.
He took great joy in listening to Armenian music, which connected him to his roots and brought him comfort and pride. He deeply cherished Armenian heritage, culture, and traditions, especially sharing meaningful conversations with friends and enjoying Armenian food together. Helping others came naturally to him, and he was always ready to support his community with kindness and generosity.
Above all, Raffi will be remembered for his warmth, his dedication to service, and the genuine connections he made with those around him. His legacy of faith, friendship, and cultural pride will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Survivors, in addition to his wife, Leeza, include his two sons, Yervant Raffi Bardakjian and Arek Shant Bardakjian; his brothers, Hagop Bardakjian and his son Yervant H. (Kristen) and their children Valentina and Sofia; Hratchia K. (Talar) Bardakjian and their children Yervant J. and Joseph; his sister, Nayeri (Levon) Eiebyjian and their children Avo and Rosie; his aunt Alice Bardakjian, wife of the late Hrant Bardakjian, and her daughter Talin (Seto) Nalbandian; his brother-in-law, Dr. Apraham (Salpi) Karagulian and their children Berna, Levon, and Lila; his sister-in-law, Ani (late Norayer) Keshishian and her children Mher, Levon, and Meghri; and his sister-in-law, Maral (Anastas) Mazloomian and their children Lori and Aren and the whole Bardakjian, Manoukian, and Karagulian families.
Relatives and friends may call at Holy Cross Armenian Apostolic Church, 255 Spring Avenue, Troy, on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon, with a funeral service to follow at 12:00 Noon.
Interment will take place at Albany Rural Cemetery, Menands.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Raffi Bardakjian to his children Yervant and Arek Bardakjian. We recommend using the brycefuneralhome.com website to share or send condolences, light a candle, view videos or for service directions.
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