Dr. Raffy Hovanessian was an accomplished physician and scientist, respected around the world for his work, and especially in the Armenian community. He was a dedicated supporter of FAR’s work, particularly our Healthcare Program, and was a strong advocate of the Continuing Medical Education Program (CME). He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, in May after a seven-year battle with cancer, at age 81. 

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He was dedicated to the Armenian community and he constantly exhibited grace, humility, and kindness. He was known as a wonderful physician, a humanitarian and a friend who had a unique ability to make people feel important and valued. He loved the Armenian people and his passing is truly the ultimate loss to Armenians everywhere. 

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Dr. Hovanessian’s sense of philanthropy and activism led him to support many other organizations, including many in the Armenian community. He was president of the medical staff at Mercy Hospital, the Alpha Omega Honor Medical Society, and the Asian American Medical Society. He served as chairman of the Department of Medicine at both Mercy Hospital and Methodist Hospital. 

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He served on the Board of Directors of the Armenian American Health Professionals Organization (AAHPO), as well as for the Armenian Assembly, the AGBU, the American University of Armenia, the Armenian Church Endowment Fund, and St. Nersess Armenian Seminary. He was a member of the Diocesan Council for 16 years as well as a member of the Knights of Vartan.