Lasting Legacy

(view original article) So many of us dream of finding that one person, the other half, the soul mate, that one true love. Sosé Thomassian and Allen Yekikian lived that dream. They met at the Armenian Youth Federation’s annual convention, not at UCLA where they both graduated from. Sosé was part of the Orange County chapter and Allen, the La Crescenta chapter. It quickly became evident that the two were “a thing” when they would often attend each other’s chapter events. As some of their friends mentioned, they would both light up when they saw each other.

Their wedding last August was composed of another dream – having the ceremony at the medieval Monastery of Kecharis, with a reception that followed near Lake Sevan. This was the first step in beginning their lives in Armenia.

Earlier this year, the two repatriated to Armenia. Allen began working at the American University of Armenia as the Director of Communications and Sosé took up Eastern Armenian language courses. The Diasporan dream of repatriation was also checked off the list.

Sadly, however, we lost both Sosé and Allen earlier this month to an auto collision in the country of Georgia – their official trip as a married couple. Sosé was eager to explore Tbilisi and its gastro culture and Allen wanted to fulfill yet another dream, to visit the tomb of the renowned author Raffi.

Though they are no longer with us physically, they continue their work with their legacy fund. The Sosé and Allen’s Legacy foundation will continue their vision by establishing programs and supporting existing programs aimed at bridging the gap between Armenia and its Diaspora, through emphasis on education, repatriation, and volunteerism within the homeland.

Contributions can be made to the address below, or online.

Rest in peace my friends.

Sosé and Allen’s Legacy Fund

104 N. Belmont St. Suite 313

Glendale, CA 91206