Funeral services for Dr. Ourfali were held on Saturday, October 22 and Mass was held on November 27 for the 40th day memorial.

Dr. Jacob Ourfali was born on December 3, 1948 in Beirut, Lebanon. He was the second child of Joseph and Hermine Ourfali, who left Palestine as a consequence of World War II and made their home in Lebanon.

Some time later and due to work considerations the Ourfalis moved to Jordan, where Jacob attended the local Armenian school and later completed his studies at the Amman State High School.

1968 was a fortuitous year for Jacob. He received word that he was accepted into the Yerevan Medical University. So, the 18-year-old Jacob moved to Armenia to complete his studies.

In the shadow of Mount Ararat and on the soil of his homeland, he worked hard and received his medical degree, with high honors. He moved to the United States to complete his doctorate degree and finished his residency in Gary, Indiana.

In 1984 he became a Medical Doctor specializing in family medicine and set-up his practice in Los Angeles.

That same year, Jacob met his life partner, Verona Meliksetian, with whom he married and created his traditional Armenian family. The Ourfalis were blessed with three children, Jayna, Raffi and Cindy, who became the light of Jacob and Verona’s life.

Jacob was of the second generation of Genocide survivors, who as a result of the great calamity were forced to rebuild their lives from scratch, through determination and belief in God as only Armenians can.

Jacob’s family was poor and lacked resources, so the late Jacob was forced to work and study at a very early age. At the young age of 10 he worked with his father and uncle, who were cobblers. Then he worked in the printing field and later as a jeweler and then at a photography studio.

Before graduating high school, Jacob was already an accomplished photographer and was able to make a living and also support his family.

Despite the dire financial condition of the Ourfali family, Jacob’s mother, Hermine, always insisted and encouraged Jacob to continue his studies and become a doctor. Heeding his mother’s encouraging words, Jacob applied and was accepted to the Yerevan Medical University and arrived in the Armenian capital, Yerevan, with $10 in his pocket. This is when Jacob starts wrestling with life’s realities and strives to better himself through hard work and perseverance to reach his goals.

It wouldn’t be fair to describe Jacob as just a doctor. He was more than. First and foremost he was a human being—in capital letters. He had an eternal love for his family, his friends and acquaintances, and more importantly for his homeland, the Armenian language, culture and the Armenian Church.

Jacob firmly believed that it was better to give that to receive and therefore his door was open to all, without exception, be they a political office holder, the Catholicos or a poor worker; be they a colleague or a stranger.

It is difficult to describe the manner in which he treated people, young and old. His heart was filled with love for all.

Jacob’s commitment to his nation and the church was evident from a young age when he became a cub scout and a boy scout, and as an adult he was a national delegate representing the Pasadena Armenian Apostolic Church and later a member of the Western Prelacy Executive Council and constant and generous supporter of community organizations and institutions.

During the worst days of the Nagorno-Karabakh liberation struggle, Dr. Jacob Ourfali spared nothing to morally and financially assist the heroic people of Artsakh, and continued his contribution until his untimely death. He and his wife, Verona, became active members of the Armenian National Committee where they gave their utmost to ensure the success and advancement of the Armenian Cause.

For Jacob, his homeland, Armenia was a sacred altar to which he bowed and dedicated himself.

Jacob was a staunch supporter of Armenian culture and he often sponsored cultural events and projects. In 1999, through his leadership and dedicated work, the Yerevan Medical University was able to have a modern library on the occasion of the school’s 70th anniversary.

As a physician, Jacob became one of the first Armenian doctors to become Board Certified and later he deservedly became the chairman of the well-renowned Hollywood Presbyterian and St. Joseph hospitals.

Jacob Ourfali was dedicated to his field and his specialty. Hundreds of people can attest to the level of care they have received from the late doctor. For many years, Dr. Ourfali had designated Wednesdays as the day when he would treat patients free of charge, providing care and medical attention to a wide-spectrum of people and earning their respect and love.

For 50 years Jacob worked relentlessly, without once thinking about his comfort or taking vacations. He had decided that in 2011 he would lighten his workload and take his family to visit Amman, Jordan to show his children the place of his humble beginnings and the place that provided him the impetus to flourish and success. Unfortunately, his untimely death put an end to those plans and dreams.

His death will undoubtedly be mourned by his family, his brothers and sisters, his relatives, friends, colleagues, patients—everyone. His passing is a big loss for the Armenian community of which Dr. Jacob Ourfali was a venerable member.

LOS ANGELES—The Armenian Cultural Foundation Western Region will present the Honorees of the Decade award to philanthropists Varant and Hoori Melkonian on Sunday, December 5, during the ACF Banquet at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.

“The Melkonians have been champions of the Armenian Cause and good friends of our organization,” said Avedik Izmirlian, chairman of the ACF-WR. “Varant and Hoori clearly illustrate an advocacy for excellence and we applaud their continued efforts.”

Melkonian is the President and CEO of Closet World Inc., the nation’s largest custom closet company. Varant and his wife Hoori continue to bring a community involvement philosophy to philanthropy.

“One could easily brand Varant as a successful civic leader,” said Pattyl Aposhian Kasparian. “He’s a roll-up-your-sleeves kind of man who doesn’t expect any special recognition for his dedication. Still, it’s exciting to see him receive this accolade!”

“This award recognizes many years of service, commitment and philanthropy,” continued Aposhian. “Both Varant and Hoori has always demonstrated a strong willingness to not just be a part of the community, but also to encourage others to make commitments.”

Individuals interested in attending the ACF-WR Banquet where Varant and Hoori Melkonian will be honored are encouraged to contact the ACF-WR office at (818) 243- 1890. Cocktail reception begins at 5 p.m. followed by dinner and program at 6 p.m. As of December 1, the event was close to being sold out.

It was the night of alpha females. The success of the kick-off celebration surrounding the 120th anniversary of the ARF was highlighted by the energy, confidence and power of the organization’s female supporters.

As I observed the guests exchanging warm greetings over cocktails, I couldn’t help but notice the poise, confidence and determination of the women.

Here walks in Hoori Melkonian, a few steps behind her charismatic husband Varant. With her dark hair framing her face, she looked glamorous in an elegant knit suit. Hoori is a philanthropist, activist, educated and intelligent wife and mother of three. If that’s not enough to keep her head from spinning, she is a role model– not just for her family, but for the entire community.

Mina Shirvanian is a devoted and prominent Armenian American with years of knowledge and experience to share.And the list of strong, driven and dynamic women continues.

Christina Jabarian is an amazingly energetic, stylish and career-oriented socialite.

Aida Yeghiazarian is a sophisticated, business-savvy Hai Tad activist.

Rosalie Tcholakian is a young, strong-willed and self-directed perfectionist.

Eva Garibian is a modern-day Rosie the Riveter—nurturing our privileges in the professional arena.

Hilda Baghdassarian is a long-time supporter who connects with her community and spreads positive and powerful messages.

Mention any of this to them and they are quick to deflect it to two words—my husband.

The evening was a celebration of sorts. Community leaders, organizational representatives, activists and benefactors were among the guests at the home of Mihran and Rosalie Tcholakian who graciously hosted the kick-off event on Wednesday, November 3.

During the intimate sit-down dinner, Dr. Viken Hovsepian, ARF Bureau Member and Avedik Izmirlian, Chairman of the ACF briefed guests about the events surrounding the 120th anniversary celebration.

Izmirlian thanked our hosts, guests and supporters. He outlined the upcoming events and encouraged everyone to take ownership of the celebration. “This celebration belongs of every individual here tonight. This celebration belongs to our community.”

Remarks from Hovsepian highlighted the organization’s strength and value. “How can I define what the ARF does?” suggested Hovsepian. “It’s like a complicated calculation. Try to take the ARF out of the equation and see what you are left with,” continued Hovsepian. “Would we have our freedom, our independence or our right to speak?”

As if she just stepped off the cover of a high-end magazine, Jasik Jarahian took center stage. She captured the hearts of all the guests. Once in the capable hands of Jarahian, the program took a life of its own as supporters stood for brief remarks and announcements. Guests committed to table sponsorships and donations. More importantly, every single individual took ownership of the Banquet celebration and committed to a sold out event!

The evening was unique in many ways. It was genuine. It was uplifting. It was enlightening!

I felt the commitment. I felt the strength. I felt the power and unity of our community.

I saw the many faces of our supporters, volunteers and friends.

Angelo Ghailian is an educated, career-oriented father of 5-month-old twin boys and a proud volunteer and supporter.

Haigoush Keghinian Kohler. If you don’t know her by name, you certainly know her by her work and dedication to the Javakhk Foundation and the many ARS world-wide projects.

Nazareth Sadorian is a seasoned professional with strong ties to the Montebello community.

Nora Yacoubian is all smiles—full of warmth, passion and drive. She is the volunteer who will swap her strappy stilettos for sneakers without second guessing her actions for the betterment of the community.

Hacop Shirvanian took my breath away. As he stood up to say a few words, I was struck by the magnitude of his presence. Amongst us stood a leader, a pillar of strength. His generosity matched by his unparalleled patriotism and dedication to the Armenian Cause makes him a man I’m proud to say is one of us.

Now, more than ever, I am excited to be an integral part of the 120th anniversary celebrations. I am a part of an organization that doesn’t take no for an answer. I am a part of an organization that is driven by purpose. I am a part of an organization that is strategically aligned with its goals, objectives and vision.

One person does not and should not carry the weight of the Armenian Cultural Organization alone. The organization has us—hamageers, the million plus supporters around the world connected under one mission, one cause.

The Organization has me. The Organization has you. The Organization has us all!

There’s always a time in one’s life, when a mentor comes along—someone who inspired you, motivated you and made you a better individual. So far, so good! My parents inspired and encouraged me and provided all the resources necessary to become an outstanding citizen and strong Armenian.

But this is a two-fold statement.

My parents couldn’t and shouldn’t do it all. Fortunately, they made wise choices. Hence, my modified opening statement.

It comes a time in one’s life, when an organization comes along with a purpose that stimulates you and compels you to go above and beyond your capabilities for the betterment of yourself and the community.

I started St. Mary’s Armenian School—now known as Richard Tufenkian Pre-School at the sweet age of three. I was admitted as a tenacious, strong-willed girl with hundreds of interests and graduated 12 years later from Chamlian Armenian School as a curious, resilient and confident teenager who was enthused to change the world while standing rooted in the values most important to our community– family, culture and academics.

If Chamlian and its after-school activities were not enough, I joined Ararat Homenetmen, AYF and Hamazkayin Dance.

My years of scouting left me with a confidence in both my intellectual and my social abilities—an assurance that I never could have gained without the weekly Sunday meetings, summer camps, leadership seminars and social activities. My Armenian Youth Federation (AYF) years provided me with strength and unrivaled opportunity for personal growth. It transformed the way I felt about the world and my community, about what I can accomplish and more importantly, the profound impact I can make.

It was with the organization, leadership and support of the AYF that I created ever-lasting memories– from the ashy fire pit at AYF Camp to my first ever trip to Armenia.

My Armenian National Committee of America years exposed me to politics. It granted an arrogant, book-smart university Junior her first taste of freedom—as a Leo Sarkissian ANCA intern in Washington D.C. From meetings on Capitol Hill to mock trials to the strongest lobbying efforts, the ANCA uncovered a mask of local, state and national drudgery for our national interests.

Until today, amongst my social circles are my friends from Ararat Homenetmen, AYF, Chamlian and the ANCA. The individuals who partake in perfecting my life have passed through the discipline, education and influence of our extended ARF family.

I witness the power of the Armenian Revolutionary Federation (ARF) through the accomplishments all around me. From my local print shop owner who prints my family’s most treasured pictures to my graphic designer who works around the clock to meet my deadlines to the Emergency Room doctor who cares for my daughter during unexpected childhood accidents—the ARF surrounds us.

We are everywhere. From academics to business owners to vice presidents to attorneys to teachers to activists to our humble and dedicated volunteers, we carry the influence of the ARF with us. It is with my organizational family that I’ve experienced the best of the best.

Look around you. I’m confident that the ARF influence is a part of YOUR everyday life too!

Please join the Armenian Cultural Foundation on Sunday, December 5 to celebrate the 120th anniversary of the ARF at the Beverly Hilton. For more information, please contact (818) 243-1890.

Not long ago, I would have said Pierre-Auguste Renoir had little in common with today’s Armenian Cultural Foundation (ACF). So learning about the last three decades of his life was an eye-opening experience in more ways than one.

During this period, Renoir, like the ACF, faced many challenges. He was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and doctors recommended he move to an area with a different climate. His response was inspiring. He not only adapted to the changed environment, but he also took advantage of the new setting in a series of landscapes.

As his physical condition deteriorated, he made a tough choice. He said, “I can either walk or paint,” since each required so much of his stamina. He narrowed his focus on painting.

He continued to adapt and adjusted his surroundings to his limited physical ability. Since some of his paintings were too large to paint from a wheelchair, he had an apparatus designed to allow the canvas to move within his reach.

While he’s best known for his painting, he also was a gifted sculptor. As this became too physically difficult, Renoir collaborated; working with someone whose capabilities complemented his own. Renoir would guide and direct a sculptor who would work with him.

In this same three-decade era, Renoir’s oldest two sons served in World War I, both sustaining injuries. His wife died. All in all, this could have been viewed as a terrible time in the artist’s life. He continued. He persevered.

The Armenian Cultural Foundation makes tough choices every day. We continue to adapt. We focus. We collaborate. We build on our foundation. We educate and inspire the leaders of tomorrow.

We stand proud as we advance on the same vision and mission we were established 120 years ago.  We strive to advance the principles of democracy, economic justice and social equality. We strive to safeguard and develop our multi-faceted culture on foreign land.  We work towards these goals every day.  We continue to expand our services and cultivate new opportunities for our youth. We support and encourage political, education, social and athletic development.
We take what little we have and move forward because we have the most important asset that no other organization can compete with.

We have YOU—our most central and prized asset.

In 2010, the Armenian Cultural Foundation celebrates the Armenian Revolutionary Federation’s 120 years of uninterrupted service to the preservation and enrichment of Armenian culture and national heritage.

Without your confidence in our strength and integrity, reaching this milestone would have been impossible.

Please save the date and join us on Sunday, December 5, 2010 at the Beverly Hilton as we celebrate 120 years of service, commitment and growth.