John was honored at the Watertown Community Foundation’s 20th Anniversary Celebration in 2023, where he was recognized as one of our original founders.

The Watertown Community Foundation mourns the passing of one of our founders, Mr. John Airasian.

John’s deep dedication to Watertown throughout his personal, professional and civic life transformed Watertown. Significantly, his work to reimagine the Watertown Arsenal, a complex decades-long project to decommission and redevelop a superfund site, led to the creation of the Watertown Community Foundation. Founded in 2003 to benefit the people of Watertown, the Foundation has become a community leader addressing essential needs, building community engagement, and investing in the education and development of our youth. During our 20th Anniversary, we honored John and the Foundation's founders, recognizing his vision and his capacity to unite people around a common good.

Today, John’s legacy lives on through our work at the Foundation. In our work with on the ground partners in the city, across businesses and non-profits, we create ways to bring people together, inspire understanding and support community needs across our many diverse neighborhoods. His influence continues in the ongoing prosperity and vibrancy of his beloved community. We mourn his passing with his family and friends, and join in celebrating his generous spirit and commitment.

We are deeply grateful for John’s vision, leadership and friendship. Our heartfelt condolences are with the Airasian family during this time.

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