Pasadena-based real estate executive Haroutyoon Ayvazian has reportedly donated $300,000 to St. Gregory Armenian Church of Pasadena in memory of his late father, Krikor Ayvazian.

Ayvazian was born in Baghdad and immigrated with his parents to the U.S., settling in Pasadena in 1968. After graduating from Pasadena City College, he attended UCLA, where he graduated with a degree in Biology. Entering the business world, he has made his career in real estate development.

Ayvazian is also said to have donated to the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA), All Armenia Fund, Armenia’s Orphan and Disabled Fund and the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem, among others, according to a St. Gregory Armenian Church statement.

Part of Ayvazian’s donation will be used to embellish the Church altar area with a fresco of the resurrection of Christ, by European-trained artist Shant Giragosian. Additionally, in memory of Ayvazian’s father, a mosaic of the Vision of Krikor Loosavoreech will be added to the entrance of the sanctuary.

The church will also create an endowment in the name of Haroutyoon Ayvazian, the proceeds of which will be used to invest in parish youth, the statement added.