Harout Gerekmezian

(March 26, 1975 – February 19, 2014)

Harout Gerekmezian was born on March 26, 1975, to proud parents Sahag & Sona Gerekmezian. He grew up in Beirut, Lebanon with his 3 sisters Vartoug, Garine, and Tsolair.

The family moved to Canada and settled in Toronto in 1991. Harout quickly became acquainted with many people within the Armenian community. He gained popularity and made a lot of friends. He was known as “Heyrout From Beirut” among his friends in the Armenian Community Centre, due to his warm nature and genuine personality. He always had a pleasant smile on his face as well a heart of gold.

When Harout was 19, he lost his father (49 years old) who died of a heart attack in Lebanon. The family was devastated by the sudden loss of their father. Growing up, Harout’s father was a role model for him, because Sahag Gerekmezian had devoted his whole life to the Armenian community in Lebanon, by being a prominent A.R.F. figure, and a member of Homenetmen Athletic organization. So it was only natural that Harout would follow his father’s path. From a young age, he was also a member of A.R.F. and the Homenetmen soccer league.

Harout married his wife Rima in the year 2000, and was a loving and proud father to Sahag and Serly. Family was everything to Harout and he always strived to give the best to his wife and children. He was loved and respected by all. Harout was full of life, no matter the challenges and difficulties he faced.

On February 19, 2014, Harout tragically passed away from cardiac arrest shortly after coming home from a soccer game. He was only 38 years old. Family and friends were deeply saddened and shocked by his sudden, unexpected passing. His absence has left a huge gaping hole in our hearts. The fact that he is no longer here will always cause us pain as well as a great void in our lives, but the memories we have of Harout will stay with us forever.

Gone too soon but never forgotten. He is forever in our hearts, until we meet again.