Mark Gustav Gulesian

Mark Gustav Gulesian, died June 30, 2024 at Brookdale Senior Living in Williamsburg, VA. He was born Jan. 20, 1935 in Newtonville, MA. His parents, Doris and Manuel Gulesian, preceded him in death. Mr. Gulesian was a Professor Emeritus of the College of William and Mary. He is survived by his wife Jean of 64 years, his daughters Gwen Shevchik (Greg) of Howell, MI and Ann McAteer, of Williamsburg, VA, and grandsons Peter McAteer (Stephanie) of Williamsburg, VA, Alex Shevchik (Rachel) of Wyoming, MI, and Matthew Shevchik (Madison), of Detroit, MI. A native of Massachusetts, Mr. Gulesian received his BA in English from Tufts University. After service in the US Army he taught high school English in Rochester NY and Sudbury, MA for eight years before earning a doctorate from the University of Massachusetts. He began teaching at The College of William and Mary in 1970, retiring as a full professor after 29 years. While at the college, Mr. Gulesian worked closely with English teachers in public school systems from Virginia Beach to Richmond, as well as with both undergraduate and graduate English students at the college who were preparing to teach English. He founded, directed, and taught in the Eastern Virginia Writing Project for twenty years. Mr. Gulesian served on the Williamsburg/James City County School Board from 1989 to 1993. After retiring from William and Mary he enjoyed landscaping and gardening as well as digital photography and researching family history. He also enjoyed woodworking and had made several pieces of furniture over the years. Listening to classical music was always a joyful experience for him whether on the radio or at a concert. An avid reader he read particularly historical non-fiction. What he most enjoyed was being a grandfather and hanging out with friends, both old and new. Those who knew him will remember him for his keen sense of humor and wit. Visitation is Friday, July 5, 2024, from 2:00-4:00 pm, at Nelsen Funeral Home, Williamsburg VA.