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Williamstown honors longtime volunteer

WILLIAMSTOWN – The city honored a longtime resident for his selfless volunteer work Tuesday evening.

Carnick Hamperian, 88, was named the Pride of Williamstown for his countless hours of volunteer work with civic organizations as well as the city.

“We’re really here to honor this gentleman,” said Mayor Jean Ford.

“I am very honored and surprised,” Hamperian said following the announcement. “I had no idea.”

Hamperian was born and raised in Philadelphia as a first generation American as his father immigrated from Armenia and mother from Austria. He served for three years in the U.S. Navy during World War II in the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea.

Hamperian moved to Williamstown in 1954 and began work at Fenton Art Glass in 1960. He and his wife, Marjorie Hamperian, raised four sons David, Roger, Bruce and John in the city.

“Williamstown has meant a lot to us,” said Marjorie Hamperian. “It is a wonderful community to be a part of.”

In the past nearly 60 years in Williamstown, Hamperian has volunteered with many civic organizations as well as with the city. He volunteered maintenance and other work on the former Williamstown city swimming pool, which closed in 2004 after more than 50 years.

“Without him, Williamstown wouldn’t have had the old pool,” Ford said. “Because of his selfless work, caring heart and dedication, Williamstown is a much better place to live.”

Hamperian is the fourth person to receive the Pride of Williamstown, an award designed to give recognition to those who have put in work beyond the call of duty.

In December, former Williamstown Fire Chief Joe Ruf, who passed away suddenly in November 2012, after quietly retiring from the city position he held for 27 years, was recognized by the city.

Other recipients are Bernard Mullenix and Councilman Gene Duncan, who were the first two recipients of the award for their volunteerism in the community.

Ford said the city is hoping to inspire others.

“Our community is all about reaching out to people and helping and we hope to give enthusiasm to the younger generation to volunteer,” she said.

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