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Born in New York City, Hovasapian was a first-generation Armenian-American, as his parents Peggy Tighe and Pusant Hovasapian, emigrated from Turkey.
He attended Dewitt Clinton High School in the Bronx, where he excelled in sports, particularly baseball and football, and he was athlete of the year of the 4,000-plus all-male student body, when he was a senior. He had a full scholarships, first at Stanford University, then Columbia University.
After graduating with a bachelor's degree, Hovasapian worked in the life insurance field throughout his career, most notably as the assistant director of underwriting of Metropolitan Life, until he retired in 1992. He came out of retirement in 1994, consulting for various life insurance companies until 2008.
He was a lover of the arts throughout his life, particularly music and theater. After college, Hovasapian played semi-professional football for the Jersey Jets and the Westchester Crusaders, and as one of the Columbia University founding members of the Old Blue Rugby Football Club, he enjoyed continuing his athletic endeavors, playing rugby regionally for more than 20 years.
Hovasapian is survived by his wife of nearly 30 years, Rona; children Frederick Jr. of Rochester, N. H., Valerie of Salt Point, Andrew of Gaylordsville, Conn., and Douglas of Montrose; grandchildren Drew, Nadia, Claire, Frederick III, Eric, Will, Sara, Alexis, Erika, Christopher, Dawn, Morgan and Timothy; stepsons Raymond and Malcolm; and sister Carol Tufts.
A memorial service was held on Monday, Jan. 18. Dapson Chestney Funeral Home assisted with arrangements.
Memorial donations can be made to the SPCA of Dutchess County, by clicking here, or AIM at Melanoma, by clicking here, or by mailing a check to 3217 Bob O Link Court, Plano, TX 75093.
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