In Memoriam | John Airasian

We at the Mosesian Center for the Arts are deeply saddened by the passing of John Airasian. John was instrumental in the very creation of this organization – helping to turn the vision of an arts center at the former Watertown Arsenal into a vibrant community hub for creativity and connection.

A dedicated civic leader, businessman, and proud Watertown native, John’s influence can be felt throughout our city and within the walls of this building he helped bring to life. In 2013, we were honored to recognize him for his remarkable service and enduring commitment to the arts and to Watertown.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Airasian family and are deeply grateful that they have chosen to direct memorial donations to Mosesian Arts in his honor. We will remember John with admiration and gratitude, and we will continue our work in the spirit of his vision and dedication.

Donations may be given at the link here.

Below are some photos of John from over the years. ❤️

 

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John S. Airasian | Obituary

October 21, 1943 ~ November 5, 2025 (age 82)

A Mass of Christian Burial for John S. Airasian, of Watertown, will be held on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at 11 a.m. in the Church of St. Patrick, 212 Main Street, Watertown. John was born in Cambridge to the late Peter S. and Anna E. (Calles) Airasian. He passed away surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at the age of 82.

He grew up on Oakley Road in East Watertown with his parents and brothers. He attended Hosmer School, East Junior High, and graduated from Watertown High School in 1962, where he proudly served as Class President all four years.

John went on to study business at Boston College (Class of 1966), where he thrived both academically and socially, expanding his lifelong circle of friends. In 1968, following the passing of his father, Peter, the founder of Eastern Clothing, John stepped into the family business. With his brother and co-owner Paul by his side, John led Eastern Clothing for more than 50 years, elevating it to new heights and building a loyal regional following that included professional athletes, local politicians, coaches, and media personalities. His son and current owner, John, continues to operate and thrive for a third generation.

In 1972, John married the love of his life, Marie (Keegan) Airasian. Together, they shared 53 beautiful years, raising three children and filling their home in Watertown with laughter, love, and cherished memories. Their adventures together included international travel, summers on Long Beach in Gloucester, and vacations in Naples, Florida.

John’s greatest joy came from his family, especially his five grandchildren, whom he adored beyond measure. He had a unique gift for connecting with each one individually, creating a special and lasting bond that brought him immense happiness.

Another of John’s great loves was his hometown, Watertown, which he proudly called “the best place in the world.” Deeply committed to his community, John served as Corporator and Trustee of Watertown Savings Bank (“the best bank in the world,” as he would say), the first President and longtime member of the Watertown-Belmont Chamber of Commerce, and a proud Rotarian and Paul Harris Fellow. John was one of the Founding Members of the Watertown Boys and Girls Club and he also served an incredible 52 years on the Watertown Traffic Commission.

Among his many civic achievements, John’s crowning accomplishment was his decades-long leadership on the redevelopment of the Watertown Arsenal, a former Superfund site. As Chairman of both the Arsenal Reuse Committee and the Arsenal Development Corporation, he oversaw the site’s decommissioning, cleanup, transformation, and eventual sale. From this work came the creation of the Watertown Community Foundation, the preservation of the Commander’s Mansion, and the founding of the Mosesian Center for the Arts, a lasting legacy of his vision and dedication.

John was the beloved husband of Marie F. (Keegan) Airasian; devoted father of Peter Airasian, Robert Airasian and his wife Kim, and John Airasian and his wife Jackie, all of Watertown; and the loving grandfather of Victoria, Robert, Vincent, Michael, and Jack Airasian. He was the dear brother of the late Peter Airasian (and his late wife Gwendolyn) and the late Paul Airasian (and his surviving wife Terry). He was the beloved son-in-law of Victoria Keegan (and the late Robert Keegan). The dear brother-in-law to Michael and Donna Keegan and Robert and Roberta Patricelli. He is also survived by his caring nieces and nephew, Lynn FitzGerald, Greg Airasian, Amy Fathers, Melissa Amaral, Eizabeth Farrar, Taylor Keegan, and Jessica Schlueter.

Funeral from the MacDonald, Rockwell & MacDonald Funeral Home, 270 Main Street, Watertown, on Wednesday, November 12, at 10 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass in the Church of St. Patrick at 11 a.m. Relatives and friends are kindly invited. Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday from 2 to 7 p.m. Interment at Mount Auburn Cemetery, Cambridge.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in John’s memory may be made to the Mosesian Center for the Arts, 321 Arsenal Street, Watertown, MA 02472