George C. Ekmalian Jr., age 78, died peacefully on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at the Veterans Home in Holyoke. Born in Springfield on June 30, 1947 to the late George and Frances (Mayberry), George was a lifelong resident of Springfield. He was proud of his Armenian American heritage and of his St. Mark’s Armenian Church community.
George was honored to serve his country first serving as a sailor in the US Navy from 1966-1968 and later serving as 1st Sergeant in the US Army from 1977-2008, embracing an impressive 34 military career. He also served in the CTARNG Aviation Company D 2/126th. He volunteered as a member of the color guard for over 10 years and was a lifetime member of the Elks Lodge # 61 in Springfield, and the VFW Post # 7352 as post commander.
George will be sadly missed by his loving wife and best friend, Marlene Ekmalian who he was married to for 56 years. Additionally, he leaves behind his children, Keith Ekmalian of Springfield, Joseph Ekmalian, and his wife Kathleen of Longmeadow; his 4 grandchildren, Vincent, Nicholas, Anthony and Paul; a nephew, Eric Arena and nieces Lisa and Joanne Cerrone, along with other extended family members and friends. George was dedicated to his family and was always hardworking and a source of strength for his family and friends.
The family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the Veterans Home in Holyoke for their exceptional care over the last 6 years. We appreciate the genuine compassion and care the staff provided for George during his stay there. They always had a way of keeping us in good spirits during this difficult time.
Visitation hours will be held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 from 4-7 pm at Nowak Funeral & Cremation Services, 15 Ludlow Avenue, Indian Orchard, MA 01151. The funeral service will be held Wednesday, October 15 at 11:00 am at St. Mark’s Armenian Church, 2427 Wilbraham Rd, Springfield, MA 01129. A private burial service with military honors will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, it is the wish of George’s family that donations be made to the Veterans Home, 110 Cherry Street, Holyoke, MA 01040 or to St. Mark’s Armenian Church, 2427 Wilbraham Rd, Springfield, MA 01129.
Black Border- 1SG (RET) George C. Ekmalian Jr. – 9 October 2025
