Richard V. Geragosian

BIOGRAPHY OF RICHARD GERAGOSIAN

 Richard Geragosian served his country proudly in Viet Nam from 1967-1969 with the 5th Infantry, 1st Brigade, 1st/77th Armored Headquarters Company. He was wounded while on a mine sweeping mission and honorably discharged as a result of his injuries. He was born in Detroit on December 26, 1947 and lived his whole life in Detroit, Michigan, except during his military service.

Richard’s parents, Khoren and Meline, were survivors of the Armenian Genocide in Turkey in 1915. They lost many loved ones during that tragic time, and they fled for their lives, eventually meeting 25 years later in the United States. Khoren was a tailor and Meline became an accomplished seamstress. Together they ran a successful dry cleaning and tailoring business in what was then an affluent section of town, and they raised Richard as their only son in a beautiful home nearby. Sadly, the stresses of their early lives and the turmoil of the 1960s, which was a period of great civil unrest, especially in Detroit, led to their premature deaths when Richard was in his early 20s.

 He had no brothers or sisters and never married, but Richard was close to his aunts, uncles and cousins, although they lived in distant parts of the country. He took pride in their accomplishments and was always concerned about their well-being. He especially enjoyed family gatherings.

Richard never wanted to burden anyone with his problems, but he never said no when others asked for help. He was very self-sufficient and had an independent spirit. He was quiet and unassuming, but with a strong character and the courage to face life’s adversities.

Richard was an early acolyte of Rock n’ Roll and Blues music and collected records and loved to listen to them throughout his life. He was also an avid sports fan, especially the local baseball, football, and basketball teams, and he especially loved the Detroit Tigers.

In addition to his physical injuries, Richard suffered from severe PTSD as a result of his service. However, he was persevering and was always strong and dignified. Although he never complained, his service in Viet Nam left him with deep emotional scars which were hard for him to admit or overcome. He also succumbed to prostate cancer which was attributed to his exposure to Agent Orange in Viet Nam.

 Richard appreciated the care he received at the VA hospital in Detroit, where he was treated over the years. The staff got to know him well and appreciated his pleasant and respectful manner. They understood him and treated him kindly and Richard in turn trusted them and felt that he could rely on their warmth and care.

Richard loved life, his country and family. He lost his battle with cancer on October 14, 2022 at the age of 71, but he will not be forgotten and will always be remembered with love and respect by everyone who knew him.