Dear St. Mary's Parish Family,
It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Vatche Baghdikian. The family invites you to his Celebration of Life on Saturday, March 28 at 11:30 AM at St. Mary's Armenian Church Hall, 148 22nd Street, Costa Mesa, CA 92627.
In lieu of flowers, donations are requested in Vatche's memory to:
- Armenian Presbyterian Church Sunday School
- St. Mary's Armenian Apostolic Church Sunday School
Your presence would mean a great deal to the family.
Vatche Hagop Baghdikian
August 7, 1949 – March 13, 2026
Vatche passed away peacefully in Newport Beach, California, at age 76, surrounded by family.
Born in Beirut, Lebanon, Vatche immigrated to New Jersey in 1970 to study engineering at Stevens Institute of Technology. He brought his girlfriend Elbiz to America, and they married young while both working multiple jobs. He pursued a career in electrical engineering, working on power distribution systems at airports globally, including LAX.
In 1981, Vatche and Elbiz purchased and expanded Saddle Acres Schools from a small preschool into eleven locations across northern New Jersey. Known as "Mr. B" to generations of students and families, he later became "Popi" to his five grandchildren.
Vatche was funny, strong-willed, generous, and imaginative. He enjoyed philosophy, debate, photography, Jimmy Buffett music, stock trading, and figuring out how things worked. He famously wore Birkenstocks and lived life entirely on his own terms.
Survivors
- Wife of 55 years: Elbiz
- Children: Lily Anne Babigian; Karni Hagop Baghdikian and Sarin Baghdikian
- Grandchildren: Marina, Armand, Ara, Ellie, Zoe
- Sisters: Houry Karaguezian (Los Angeles); Anahid Doniguian (Beirut)