John Balayan, Sr. of Orange peacefully passed away on November 17th. He is survived by his loving wife, Anne Arakelian Balayan, of 65 years. He was the cherished father of Joanne Frascella, John Balayan, Jr. and Elizabeth Balayan. He was the dear grandfather of Lauryn Crowe, Erica Tappin, Ariana Balayan, and Lorien Balayan. He will be greatly missed by his son-in-law Robert Frascella and daughter-in-law Sandy Balayan, and Ryan Tappin.

John was born in Armenia on June 23, 1914 and grew up in New York City. He had three older sisters, Ripsima Nazarian, Varsen Magarian, and Beatrice Balayan, who predeceased him. John was a World War II Veteran and served in the US Army for four years. When the war ended, he married Anne Arakelian of New Haven. He joined the Arakelian family in operating Arakelian Rugs in New Haven, becoming the owner, in a career that spanned five decades.

John was devoted to his family and they loved him and will miss him greatly. John will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, courage, and selflessness.

Memorial service will be private. Donations in John's memory may be sent to: The Wounded Warrior Project at http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/