Lazaros Matian, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and devoted friend, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2026, at the age of 82.

Lazaros is survived by his loving wife, Arpine; his three children, Eliza Ghazarian (James), Maro Matian, and Eva Matian (Devon); his two cherished granddaughters, Victoria and Emily Wainberg; and his nephew and niece, Bobby Skaltsiotis (Foula) and Voula Karichian (Norayr). He was predeceased by his sister, Takouhi Matian.

Beyond his immediate family, Lazaros’s legacy lives on in the Armenian community he helped shape and strengthen in Hamilton, Ontario. A devout Christian and a proud Armenian-Greek man, Lazaros was a passionate member of Homenetmen for many years. His dedication to preserving Armenian culture was unwavering, especially through his years as principal of the Hamilton Armenian School, where he worked to ensure that younger generations remained connected to their roots, language, and traditions. He was deeply committed to helping future generations carry forward the richness of their Armenian heritage.

Above all, Lazaros was immensely devoted to his family. His love for his wife, Arpine, and his children was constant, selfless, and deeply felt. That devotion also extended to his late sister, Takouhi, and to his nephew Bobby and niece Voula, who held a special place in his heart.

During his most difficult times, Arpine and his daughter Eva were by his side with unwavering love and devotion, caring for him just as faithfully as he had always cared for them. Their presence reflected the same strength, loyalty, and tenderness that Lazaros had given to his family throughout his life.

Lazaros will also be remembered for his generosity, kindness, and infectious spirit. He showed compassion in quiet, everyday ways, and those gestures never went unnoticed. Before even knowing his name, his neighbours referred to him simply as “the nice man,” because he was always the first to lend a helping hand without being asked. He could often be seen stacking firewood for others, bringing in emptied waste bins for neighbours, and offering help wherever it was needed.

At the grocery store, employees quickly came to know him for his kindness. At the neighbourhood bank, he was known affectionately as the man who always brought chocolates, candies, and gum to share. These small acts reflected the dignity, warmth, and love with which he lived his life.

Lazaros believed deeply that music and laughter were medicine. His home was often filled with music, whether he was humming a favourite song or watching the comedies he loved most, including The Three Stooges and I Love Lucy. He shared countless laughs with those around him and had a gift for bringing smiles to others, even during difficult times. After spending months in the hospital, he still maintained the sense of humour that brought comfort and laughter to those who loved him.

A limb has fallen from the family tree.
I keep hearing a voice that says, “Grieve not for me.
Remember the best times, the laughter, the song,
The good life I lived while I was strong.”

A funeral service will be held on Monday, June 15, 2026, 11:00 A.M. at Sourp Kevork Church, 397 Boul. des Prairies, Laval, QC H7N 2W6, followed by burial at Cemetery Saint-Laurent, 805 Sainte-Croix Ave., Saint-Laurent, QC H4L 3Y3. A reception lunch will be held at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to Sourp Kevork Church in Lazaros’s memory.