In Loving Memory of John Steven Garabadian

November 3, 1968 – May 24, 2025

With profound sadness, we share the passing of our beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend, John Steven Garabadian, who passed away peacefully on May 24, 2025, at the age of 56.

Born on November 3, 1968, John was baptized on June 15, 1969, at the Soorp Khatch Armenian Apostolic Church. He graduated from Walter Johnson High School and earned a degree in Economics from the University of Maryland in 1992, followed by an MBA from the same institution. He went on to build a successful career in international business, serving as a Sales Director in the software industry. His work took him across Europe and Asia, where he experienced new cultures and formed lifelong connections. 

During his travels, he met the love of his life, Duangruthai Suttaphakdee (Duang), at a temple in Thailand in 1997. They married in 1998 and were blessed with two daughters, Kadia (1999) and Kasia (2000). John continued to work in telecommunications while living and traveling throughout Asia. Every professional decision was guided by his deep dedication to providing for his family and securing their future.

Known for his warm, engaging personality, John had a gift for making people feel at ease. He greeted everyone with a smile and was quick to turn strangers into friends. He was a devoted reader, carefully annotating his ever-growing collection of books. A passionate golfer, he especially enjoyed his golf outings in Thailand and the lasting friendships they brought.

Among his most cherished memories were the carefree car rides with his daughter Kadia, the music turned up, singing along to the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Biggie Smalls—moments filled with joy and laughter that captured the essence of their bond.

John believed deeply in living with intention. He kept a daily practice of writing affirmations and goals, reminding those around him of the importance of gratitude and purpose. His guiding mantra, "Life is Wonderful," encapsulates the spirit with which he lived.

Though his time with us was far too short, John’s life was rich in love, adventure, and meaning.

Survived By:

• His devoted wife: Duangruthai Suttaphakdee (Duang)

• Daughters: Kadia and Kasia Garabadian

• Mother: Mary Garabadian

• Sister: Christine Adams (née Garabadian) and her husband, Mike Adams

• Nephews: Sean (and his wife Clair), Zach (and his wife Ledina), and Patrick Adams

Predeceased By:

• His father: Charles “Garo” (Chuck) Garabadian

Funeral and Memorial Services:

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, June 3rd, 2025, at the Francis J Collins Funeral Home, 500 University Blvd. West, Silver Spring, MD 20901

The service will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

• 10:00 a.m. – Viewing and gathering

• 10:30 a.m. – Eulogy and reflections

• 11:00 a.m. – Funeral service

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend and celebrate John’s life, faith, and memory.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly invites you to honor John's legacy in the following way:

Support for John's Family

John’s wife, Duangruthai (Duang), remains in Thailand, where she devotes herself full-time to caring for their autistic daughter, Kasia, and her own sister, who is also facing serious medical challenges.

Kasia, now in her mid-20s, has lived with a brain tumor since the age of 18 and suffers from frequent epileptic seizures. Surgery remains a risky option, with only a 50/50 chance of success, and her condition continues to worsen. She urgently requires ongoing medication and specialized care, but without a stable income, the family is struggling to afford even the most basic treatment.

Despite the overwhelming circumstances, Duang continues to provide care with love, strength, and unwavering dedication. But the financial burden is heavy, and the family is in urgent need of support.

If you would like to help them during this incredibly difficult time, donations can be made via the 'Give' tab or 'In lieu of flowers' section of this webpage.

Your generosity will provide critical relief to a family that John cherished deeply — and help carry forward his legacy of love, protection, and sacrifice.

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