Ara Eghigian, Jr.

Ara Eghigian, Jr. age 83, of Belleville, born October 6, 1925 in East St. Louis, Illinois, passed away Wednesday evening, March 4, 2009. He earned his degree from the former Park College in Parkville, Missouri, majoring in Economics. Ara was an Air Force veteran of World War II, flying on many bombing missions as an aerial gunner. For many years, he worked in the family dry-cleaning business, Masters Cleaners, in East St. Louis. He later worked in medical sales and supplies. He was a talented artist, particularly in oils and acrylics. After his retirement in 1973, he took up the hobby of woodworking and became an accomplished woodworker.

He was preceded in death by his parents Ara Eghigian, Sr., and Ester, nee Vartanian, Eghigian..

He is survived by his wife of almost 56 years, Frances Rose, nee Shangler, Eghigian, of Belleville, whom he married March 14, 1953; daughter Syrune Eghigian of Naples, Fla., and two sons, Ara (Kathleen Baca) Eghigian, III and Dr. David (Jennifer) Eghigian, all of O'Fallon. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Courtney (Aaron) Klemme, and Lindsey Eghigian, of Belleville; Connor and Madison Eghigian, Matthew and Thomas Baca, all of O'Fallon; great-grandson Kye Joshua Holbrook; one brother; two sisters, a niece and nephew.

Memorials in honor of Mr. Eghigian are requested to the Disabled American Veterans, 2 Drawbridge Road, Suite 11, Springfield, Ill 62704 or to the charity of one's choice.

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Memorial Service: A Private Committal Service will be held at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, with full military honors.