Dr. Albert Manoug Sarkessian

Celebrating the Life of Dr. Albert Sarkessian

December 25, 1929 – July 1, 2025

 Dr. Albert Sarkessian, beloved husband, father, grandfather, physician, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 95 after a long life filled with love, service, and stories worth telling

 Born on Christmas Day in 1929 in Watertown, Connecticut, Albert arrived with joy to his parents, Markrouhe and Avedis Sarkessian. The family moved to Philadelphia in 1931, and from a young age, Albert showed a strong work ethic and a big heart. By 14, he was already washing dishes at Linton’s Restaurant—eventually becoming a relief manager before he turned 19.

 He graduated from Central High School in 1948 (the 89th class) and joined the National Guard soon after, serving as a medic in the 106th Field Artillery Battalion for six years. That early service planted the seeds for a lifelong commitment to healing and helping others.

Albert’s journey to medicine was a winding, determined path. He began pre-med studies at St. Joseph’s College and completed his undergraduate degree at night through the University of Pennsylvania—all while working as a chemist by day, first at Burd Archer Co. and later at Rohm & Haas, where he conducted uranium extraction research.

But one of the biggest turning points in Albert’s life came not in a lab or classroom, but through the Armenian Student Association, where he served as president from 1961-1962.  There he met the love of his life, Nerme Hachikian. They married in 1958 and remained inseparable for the next 66 years.

The same year he married, Albert began his medical studies at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.  He quickly earned the respect of his peers, who honored him with the Atlas Memorial Award for his compassion, sincerity, and devotion to the osteopathic profession. In his senior year and internship, he was a supervisor at a health clinic at 8th & Vine for the Salvation Army, and later became a supervisor assisting senior students in the clinic for 6 years.

After Dr. Al — as he became affectionately known — graduated medical school in 1962, he opened a medical office in North Philadelphia.  He practiced for more than 30 years.  From Olney to Frankford, his offices were more than clinics—they were hubs of kindness and care. Whether you were a nun, a neighbor, or someone down on their luck, Dr. Al would find a way to fit you in. No one was turned away, ever.

Dr. Al was on the Board of Directors of the Philadelphia County Medical Society, and received thanks for medical service at the clinic at Bethel Lutheran Church.  He also took care of the Sisters of the two Catholic churches in the Olney Area. 

He cared for generations of families and was often invited to their most special occasions—weddings, christenings, birthday parties, and anniversaries—not just as a doctor, but as family.

Outside of medicine, Albert brought joy and generosity to his personal life. He was an avid tennis player well into his late eighties, and he picked up golf in his fifties, playing with his son until he was 93 years old. He and Nerme loved the theater, opera, ballet and museums.  They gave great parties, including big bashes for Al's birthday every Christmas. Summers at Loch Arbour Beach and Asbury Park were spent with family and friends, soaking up sun and making memories. Albert and Nerme were also world travelers, experiencing many exciting adventures abroad including their homeland of Armenia. 

Albert is survived by his loving wife of over 66 years, Nerme, his devoted children Juliet and Garabed and their spouses, four grandchildren, a sister, Elizabeth Barone, and her spouse and children.  His legacy lives on in their lives, and in the thousands of patients and friends who were lucky enough to know him.

Friends and family are welcome to attend his visitation from 10am to 11am Tuesday, 7-8-2025, at St. Gregory the Illuminator Armenian Apostolic Church, 8701 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19128. His funeral service will be 11am in the church.  His interment will follow the funeral service at Lawnview Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name may be made to the church.

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