Shakeh Basmajian

Born in Beirut Lebanon on June 2, 1931, to Bedros and Rosa Artinian, Shakeh was a sweet and loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, grandmother and friend.  She was a child of first generation survivors of the Armenian Genocide of 1915.

Emigrating to Toronto in 1958 with her family, they joined the small growing Armenian community and became influential members.   She had a huge impact, becoming an active member primarily of the Holy Trinity Armenian Church (HTAC) Women's Guild, and as the first chairperson of the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU), Women's Guild, Toronto Chapter, working tirelessly for both organizations and her family.  She was also a proud Canadian and loved her adopted country.

She was a devoted wife to her husband Kamer, who passed away in 1985, and a  caring sister to her brother Harry Artinian who passed away in 2010.  She was a loving and proud mother of her children, Isabelle (Isa), Knar, Shant (deceased January 1990) and Silva, and grandchildren, Lindsay Shant Hannivan (Pamela Bautista-Hou), Keegan Kamer Wharram and Kealy Elise Wharram (Michael Pace).  She dedicated her life to them and always put their needs above herself.

Shakeh was immensely proud of her Armenian heritage and contributed generously to all humanitarian causes that helped her motherland and the church. She also willingly supported numerous Canadian causes. 

An avid reader, follower of current affairs and financial news, Shakeh intelligently engaged in discussions of these topics.  She was a world traveler, having spoken five languages fluently.  Shakeh was known for her sense of humour and as a social hostess, throwing legendary dinner parties, with an abundance of food and an impressive array of delicacies.

Shakeh was an honourable woman who will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

The Funeral Service will take place on Monday, April 22, 2024 at:

Holy Trinity Armenian Church,

920 Progress Avenue,

Toronto, Ontario M1G 3T5. 

Visitation at 10:30 am, Funeral Service at 11:00 am.  Followed by the Interment at York Cemetery, Section 10, lot #6,

160 Beecroft Rd. North York N2N 5Z5

Donations In Memory of Shakeh Basmajian can be made to:

Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) – Humanitarian Fund at:  agbu.org/Toronto-donate

Holy Trinity Armenian Church – Renovation Fund:  info@TorontoArmenianChurch.com