Obituary - The Late Varujan Karabulut

Born in Turkey on September 1, 1948, to Nishan and Aghavni Karabulut, Varujan was the youngest of seven children. His journey was as expansive as his personality. He first travelled to Denmark before making his home in Canada in 1967. It was here that he met and married his beloved wife, Vergine (nee Doursounian), and together they shared a beautiful life that spanned more than five decades.

A jeweller by trade, Varujan poured his heart and artistry into his work. For many years, he co-owned and operated Century Jewellery alongside his brother-in-law and dear friend, Eddie Khounganian, whom he adored. Their partnership was built on mutual respect and a deep bond that Varujan cherished throughout his career and life.

Varujan was a man who truly lit up every room he entered. A natural storyteller, he had a rare gift for turning any moment into a cherished memory. For Varujan, food was his love language. He loved to cook, and nothing brought him more happiness than seeing family and friends gathered around a table. Everyone will remember his famous barbequed fish; whether it was lavraki or mackerel, people came from all over when they knew he was at the grill. This passion for feeding others extended to his community. For many years, he prepared fish for dozens and dozens of people at the Tekeyan Armenian Cultural Association, bringing everyone together.

More recently, he found great joy and camaraderie as part of a group of old friends who met weekly. He cherished their time together, always eager for the social connection, the shared laughs, and, of course, the chance to share another story.

His greatest pride, however, was his role as a father and grandfather. He was the devoted father of Laura (Robert) and Mark (Talar), serving as a constant, steady presence in their lives. He never missed a moment to celebrate them, standing proudly by for every milestone, big or small. To his grandsons, Haig and Alec, he was their beloved "Dede." They were his greatest treasures and the absolute lights of his life. Dede’s eyes would sparkle whenever they were near, and his pride in them was boundless.

Varujan’s lively spirit was the heartbeat of his family, stretching across the globe including Turkey, Denmark, France, New York, California, Australia, and his home in Canada. While he will be deeply missed, the stories he shared, the meals he prepared, and the love he gave will remain a guiding light for all who were lucky enough to know him.

“And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make." The Beatles

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Holy Trinity Armenian Church.

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