Sarkis “Hap” Esraelian

June 3, 1924 – October 11, 2026

   Sarkis “Hap” Esraelian was born on June 3, 1924, in Kingsburg, California, to Setrak and Anna Esraelian. He was baptized in the Kings River as part of a group baptism, reflecting the Armenian Christian traditions that would remain an important part of his life. Hap had four siblings: his sister, Rose, and brothers Charles, Sam, and Pete.

   The family later moved from Kingsburg to Selma, where Hap spent his childhood working on the family farm. He graduated from Selma High School in 1942.

   In 1945, Hap joined the United States Army, where he attained the rank of sergeant. He completed his basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, followed by advanced training in Louisiana. He was subsequently stationed in Greenland, where he worked aboard ships as a winch operator, unloading supplies.

   In 1947, Hap married the love of his life, Lorraine Proodian, at St. Gregory Armenian Church in Fowler. Their marriage spanned more than 75 years and was a lasting testament to their love and devotion to one another. Together, they raised two children, Donna Lynn and Kenneth Pat.

   The family lived in Selma until 1965, when they purchased the Proodian ranch in Fowler from Hap’s mother-in-law, Alice Proodian. They made their home there for the remainder of their lives. Hap was especially proud of the family home, often saying he knew every nail hammered into it because he had helped build it himself.

   A Life of Hard Work and Dedication

   Hap spent much of his life working in agriculture and construction to provide for his family. In addition to working on the family farm, he and his brother Sam rented and farmed a ranch together. Hap also worked for 25 years as a forklift operator at Central California Packing, receiving raisins, while holding other farming-related jobs throughout his career.

   After purchasing the Fowler ranch in 1965, Hap worked for Bob Topoozian Construction alongside Dick Nicksarian and his brother Sam. Together, they built the family home in Fowler, contributed to the construction of the Sunday School building at St. Gregory Armenian Church, remodeled the church sanctuary, and built numerous custom homes. Hap took great pride in his work and in the lasting structures he helped create for his family and community.

   Faith and Community Service

   Hap’s Armenian heritage and faith were central to his life. He served for many years on the Parish Council of St. Gregory Armenian Church, including as chairman, and was an active member of the St. Gregory Men’s Forum, where he held numerous offices. He especially enjoyed serving on church committees and contributing his time and talents to the church he loved.

   His commitment to service extended beyond the church. Hap was a lifelong member of Selma American Legion Post 12, where he served as commander and held nearly every office except finance officer. His dedication to the Legion reflected his enduring pride in his military service and his commitment to fellow veterans and the community.

   Hap was also a member of the Raisin Bargaining Association and enjoyed a Friday-night card group with friends and relatives.

   In 2003, Hap and Lorraine were honored by St. Gregory Armenian Church through its Heritage Spotlight recognition. In 2024, on the occasion of his 100th birthday, Selma American Legion Post 12 held a special ceremony honoring Hap for reaching this remarkable milestone and recognizing his many years of membership. At the time, he was the post’s oldest living member.

   A Man Who Enjoyed Life’s Simple Pleasures

   Hap found great satisfaction in life’s everyday pleasures. He loved gardening and took particular pride in the vegetable garden he planted each year. He also enjoyed playing golf, playing cards, and, perhaps surprisingly, grocery shopping.

   Hap had a remarkable memory for prices. He could tell you exactly what he had paid for just about anything and whether it had been on sale. If he found a bargain, he would buy extra. When he returned home, Lorraine would put everything away—a familiar routine that became one of the many endearing memories of their life together.

   Above all, Hap cherished time spent with family and friends. He enjoyed visiting and socializing with people of all ages, and his warmth, stories, and appreciation for others helped him maintain friendships and connections throughout his long life.

   Family and Survivors

   Hap was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lorraine; his parents, Setrak and Anna Esraelian; his sister, Rose Bozigian (Jack); his brothers, Charles (Nora and Liz), Sam (Margie), and Pete; and several beloved nieces and nephews.

   He is survived by his daughter, Donna; his son, Kenneth (Robyn); his grandsons, Jordan (Ani) and Brandon (Jordan); his granddaughter, Evan (Jeff); and eight great-grandchildren: Hudson, Harper, Hayes, Reagan, Kora, Kamryn, Isla, and Rhodes. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Dee Neece Esraelian, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Hap’s doctors, his dedicated caregivers—Rosie, Sally, Gina, Belinda, Maricela, and Ron—and the many friends and loved ones who visited him and brought comfort and companionship throughout his later years.

   Hap lived an extraordinary 102 years, marked by hard work, devotion to family, steadfast faith, and a lifetime of service to his church and community. He witnessed generations grow, helped build homes and community institutions that will endure, and created a legacy of love, dedication, and lasting relationships.

   He will be remembered with deep affection and gratitude by his family, friends, fellow veterans, church community, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His long and remarkable life leaves behind a legacy that will continue through the generations who loved him.

   In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Gregory Armenian Apostolic Church in Fowler, California.