In Loving Memory of Berj Boghos Kalaidjian (1936–2026)
Berj Boghos Kalaidjian was born on 7 March 1936 in the Armenian Quarter of Jerusalem, to Shoghig and Boghos Kalaidjian. His early life was marked by the legacy of survival, as his father had lost almost his entire family during the Armenian Genocide. As the eldest of four children, Berj assumed responsibility from a young age.
Despite a challenging upbringing, he excelled academically, graduating from high school at the age of sixteen. He then pursued higher education at the American University of Beirut, where he studied Civil Engineering, graduating in 1958. His time in Beirut was formative, both intellectually and socially, and he maintained lifelong friendships with many of his classmates.
Following his studies, Berj began his professional career in Kuwait with CCC. During this period, he supported his parents and younger siblings for over a decade, demonstrating a deep sense of duty and commitment to family.
He later married Sonia, beginning a devoted partnership that would last 62 years. Together, they raised two sons, Shahe and Vatche, building a strong and loving family life.
In 1969, Berj founded his own construction company, Acmecon, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. With foresight and determination, he contributed to the region’s early development, including work on one of the first desalination plants. His business grew alongside the rapid expansion of the city, reflecting his vision and leadership.
A man of strong principles, Berj chose independence over compromise, guided by his belief that integrity must always come first. He later returned to London, where he continued to focus on family life and personal pursuits.
In the next phase of his life, he moved to Monaco and became a full-time investor. Demonstrating remarkable adaptability, he achieved success in this field and remained active well into his later years.
Berj had a passion for travel and exploration, visiting nearly one hundred countries throughout his life. He believed deeply in the value of cultural understanding and lifelong learning, often sharing this passion with his family.
He was known for his generosity, quietly supporting extended family members and others in need. Many considered him not only a relative or friend, but also a mentor and father figure.
Deeply proud of his Armenian heritage, Berj supported numerous Armenian causes, particularly those focused on education and the well-being of younger generations. In honour of his parents, he established a fellowship at the American University of Armenia, contributing to the future development of Armenia.
In March 2026, Berj celebrated his 90th birthday surrounded by his family—a joyful and fitting milestone in a long and meaningful life.
He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather; a principled and accomplished professional; and a man of generosity, vision, and deep humanity.
May his memory be eternal.
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