It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Harry Richard Selverian on October 20, 2023 at his home in Newtown Square, PA.  A symbol of resilience and cultural pride, Harry was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather who left an indelible impact on those fortunate enough to know him.

Born on October 7, 1935 in Philadelphia, PA., Harry was the son of Jirair and Maran Selverian, both Armenian immigrants who came to the United States under different yet equally difficult circumstances. They survived the Armenian Genocide of 1915-1917, a devastating period that took the lives of many of their immediate family members. Arriving in the United States in search of a better life, they settled in Philadelphia and got married at St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church in 1927.

Harry was proud of his Armenian heritage, a trait that enriched his identity as a devoted American.  Growing up in a working-class neighborhood in Philadelphia, Harry spent his formative years managing the family's dry-cleaning store with his mother. In school, he faced the unique challenge of being a child of Armenian immigrants, where English was not his first language. Nevertheless, he showed great promise and enthusiasm for life's opportunities. A significant chapter in his early years was his involvement with the Boy Scouts, where he achieved the esteemed rank of Eagle Scout, a testament to his commitment and leadership qualities.

Harry attended Marple-Newtown High School, where he was a junior class officer and was captain of the varsity football team. Upon graduating, he attended the University of Virginia, completing his degree in architecture in 1958.

Shortly after graduation, Harry received his induction notice into the United States Army. Serving honorably from October 1958 to October 1960, Harry was stationed in Germany and achieved the rank of Specialist 4th Class, E-4. After discharge, he took the opportunity to explore Europe with a friend, a journey that contributed to his well-rounded personality and broadened his world view.

His academic and military experiences set the foundation for his successful career as a Project Manager in various architectural and construction firms in Philadelphia. Notably, he was the Project Architect for St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church, where he was also a faithful parishioner. It was in this very church that he married his wife, Sona Bedrosian, in the first wedding ceremony conducted there in 1967. The couple later became parents to two sons, Christopher Paul and Scott Peter, both of whom went on to achieve academic success, fulfilling one of Harry's profound hopes for them.

Harry was a man who lived by the Golden Rule, treating others as he would like to be treated. Harry's life was a living testament to the principles he upheld: resilience, family and the importance of heritage.

In his passing, we lose a loving son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather. He leaves a legacy abundant in love, enduring strength, and deep-rooted cultural heritage.  His memory will forever be cherished by those who knew him.

Harry is survived by his beloved wife, Sona. Loving father of Christopher (Katy) and Scott (Jennifer); Loving grandfather of Chloe, Harry, Nadia and Alexa. He is also survived by his brother Edward (Helen).

Family and friends are invited on Thursday October 26, 2023 to a Visitation from 10-11 AM with Funeral Mass at 11 AM at St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church, 8701 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19128. Interment will follow at Valley Forge Gardens Cemetery.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church and Armenian Sisters Academy .