1923 – 2014

LEWISTON — Jirard N. DerBoghosian, 91, of Lewiston died unexpectedly Friday, June 13, at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center from injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

He was born in Haverhill, Mass., on May 29, 1923, a son of the late Negoghos and Baizor DerBoghosian. He was educated in Massachusetts and then went on to proudly serve his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Jerry served on the USS Canberra, and his ship was torpedoed during the war. He was the founder of the USS Canberra Reunion Association. Jerry was a very proud veteran and always tried to keep in touch with the men that served on his ship. Every year, he would attend the USS Canberra Reunion.

Jerry retired in 1985 after working several years as the business agent and secretary-treasurer for the American Federation of Musicians. Jerry was working at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church and the Trinity Jubilee Center where he gave many years serving the less fortunate in the City of Lewiston.

Jerry volunteered for many organizations such as the United Way and March of Dimes. He was past president of the board of directors of Community Concepts, was a past director of the Literacy of Volunteers and volunteered many hours at the Jubilee Center. He was the past Commander of the James B. Longley Post of Veterans of Foreign Wars, was the Adjutant of the American Legion Post No. 22, a member of the VFW Post 9150, the American War Veterans, the Franco-American War Veterans, a member of the Centre d’Heritage and a past organizer of the Franco-American Festival. Jerry gave many hours to his community and fellow veterans and never asked for anything in return. He is a big loss to this community and will be missed by all.

Jerry loved to spend time at the ocean, traveling, music, and spending time with his family.

He leaves three sons, Richard DerBoghosian and wife, Stella, of Greeneville, Tim DerBoghosian and wife, Suzie, of Turner, and Kenny DerBoghosian of Lewiston; four step-children, Peggy Gatchell and husband, Richard, of Poalnd, Suzan Bouley and husband, Roger, of Litchfield, Ronald Sawyer and wife, Kit, of Auburn and Bill Sawyer and his fiancé, Gretchen Fall, of Albony Township; a sister, Zardy Chilingirian of Haverhill, Mass.; a brother, Michael DerBoghosian and wife, Mary, of Haverhill, Mass.; 16 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his wife, Jane (Donahue) DerBoghosian, whom he married June 21, 1990; and a step-daughter, Mary Jane Sawyer.

You are invited to offer condolences and pay tribute to Jerry’s life by visiting his guest book at www.thefortingroupauburn.com.