Mitchell Garabedian

It is with heartfelt reverence that we announce the passing of Mitchell Garabedian on December 29, 2024, at the age of 87. A man whose life was marked by leadership, service, and deep familial devotion, Mitchell leaves behind an enduring legacy to all who knew him.

Born on January 7, 1937 in Ware, Mitchell Garabedian was a cherished son to the late Gabriel and Mary (Babaian) Garabedian.   He was predeceased by his Beloved Wife and Best Friend Ida (Antoian) Garabedian in 2017.

He spent his formative years at the Wilbraham Monson Academy, laying the foundation for the great business man and leadership roles he would take on. Continuing his education, Mitchell attended Northeastern University and Lowell Tech, though his most profound lessons were taught outside the classroom.

Mitchell's career as the president of Thorndike Mills, a 98 year old family business, was regarded as a chapter of excellent stewardship and visionary leadership. His professional acumen was paralleled by his dedication to community service. He served as a second generation Palmer Rotarian for many years, including taking on the roll as chapter President, Chairman of the Rotary scholarship committee, earned the esteemed Paul Harris Award and attended many district conferences.  His efforts extended into numerous selfless roles, including serving on the advisory board for The Massachusetts Building at the Big E, where he was inducted into the 2018 Hall of Fame.  He served as President of the Palmer Chamber of Commerce and was also VP to the Quaboug Valley YMCA. 

Additionally, his deep-rooted faith guided him to become a long time committed member of St. Mark's Armenian Church, where he was active in the parish council, taught Sunday School, instrumental in starting and chairing Bingo, and served on the Building committee for the new church, along with constant dedication to his parish wherever he was needed.

Mitchell took pride in his time served as a proud Marine Corps Veteran, a testament to his enduring commitment to service.

His love for family was his greatest achievement, notably reflected in the care he devoted to his late wife Ida, throughout their 56 years of marriage. Together, they raised three daughters—Karen, Gale, and Janice—whom Mitchell guided with the same wisdom and kindness he often devoted to his life's pursuits. His daughters were fortunate to benefit from his coaching talents in Little League softball and Palmer High School Band Boosters.

A man of many interests, he took solace in calm respite and time spent on Martha's Vineyard and dedicated part of his life to capturing memories through photography—a hobby he cherished.

Mitchell will be deeply missed by his 3 daughters, Karen Baglio and her husband Sal of Marlboro, Gale Bettinger and her husband Scott of Plainville, and Janice Garabedian of Palmer.

He also leaves behind a brother Edward Garabedian and his wife Jane of Wilbraham and his sister Anna Garabedian of Palmer.  He was predeceased by his beloved sister Margaret Sahagian Moriarty in 2019.  He will also be missed by many cousins, nieces, nephews and furry grandchildren.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects at the visitation on Wednesday, January 8, from 4-7 pm at the Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow on January 9 at 11 am at St. Mark's Armenian Church in Springfield. Mitchell will be laid to rest alongside his wife at Oak Knoll Cemetery, Thorndike St., Palmer, MA .

Mitchell Garabedian's journey was one of love, service, and dedication—a beacon of inspiration and leadership, whose profound impact will be felt for generations. He will be greatly missed, remembered fondly by all those whose lives he touched.

To honor his memory, donations may be directed to St. Mark's Armenian Church, 2427 Wilbraham Rd, Springfield, MA 01129