Mr. Hygus Garabedian

Here his family pays tribute to Hygus Garabedian devoted husband and beloved father who passed, age 94, at home with family by his side on Monday, May 16, 2011, into the new life promised by Jesus Christ.

He was born in Lone Star, California, on May 10, 1917. Hygus matured into a caring son and magnificent father. In childhood, he helped support his family and this same dedication foreshadowed providing unselfishly for his own wife and children. He asked little for himself and always reminded us to "think of family first."

By character, not materially, Hygus was unimaginably wealthy. His precious riches were found as commitment to family, professional integrity, personal courage, moderation, sound judgment and wise counsel.

Hygus was proud of nine plus years of service in the U.S. Coast Guard before and during World War II. A returning veteran, Hygus proudly became a Fresno County Sheriff Deputy. Subsequently in 1949 he joined the Fresno Police Dept. serving an additional 23 years of public service with integrity and honor retiring in 1972.

A handsome man and an extraordinarily gifted all around athlete in basketball, tennis, football and boxing, he later picked up golf quickly enjoying it through his life.

Soon after the war, Hygus met the love of his life, Ann Shuklian of Visalia. Married in 1949, Hygus and Ann enjoyed 61 years of deep and abiding love. Hygus' greatest gift to their three sons was to love their mother.

We will dearly miss you Dad, but also remember as you always said, "to take one day at a time."

Hygus was preceded in passing by his parents Levon and Agavne Garabedian; and two brothers, Sahag and Frank.

Today, holding Hygus in their hearts are his adoring wife, Ann; one brother John Garabedian; and sister, Eva Kasparian; three sons, Wayne and his wife Judy, Gus and his wife Renee, Gene and his wife Jodie; five grandchildren, Cliff, Troy, Geena, Gage, Trace; and a nephew, Brian Garabedian of Lakewood, Ca.

Visitation will be held at Whitehurst, Sullivan, Burns & Blair Funeral Home on Friday, May 20, 2011, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

A Graveside Service for family, friends and law enforcement fraternity will be held at Belmont Memorial Park, on Saturday, May 21, 2011, at 11:00 a.m.