John G. Eresian

John G. Eresian, of Exeter, NH, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2024, at the age of 94. His beloved wife, Evangeline “Van” Schlegel Eresian, passed away in 2011.

Born on March 10, 1930, in Framingham, Massachusetts, to Ervant H. and Francis (Tomajan) Eresian, John was named after the renowned photographer and artist John Garo. He grew up in Holliston, Massachusetts, attended public schools, and later graduated from Harvard College (1952) and Harvard Business School (1956).

John was a nationally recognized leader in hospital financial management, serving as CFO of Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Children’s Hospital Medical Center during a pivotal time in healthcare financing. He was a frequent author and speaker on the subject. John was active in the Massachusetts and Illinois Healthcare Associations, the American Hospital Association, and the Healthcare Financial Management Association. Prior to his healthcare career, John held executive roles in manufacturing and banking. In addition to his professional accomplishments, John was a lifelong musician with a deep love for jazz and classical piano. He majored in music at Harvard, studied under Aaron Copland, and performed in various bands.

After retiring to Hollis, NH, John dedicated his time to land conservation, serving as Chairman of the Hollis Land Protection Committee and the Nashua Regional Planning Commission. He was founding Chairman of the Hollis Land Protection Committee which helped the Town to purchase and conserve sizable tracts of open land with public funds. He also served as Chairman of the Nashua Regional Planning Commission. After he and Van relocated to Exeter, NH, he was active in the governance of his continuing care retirement community and continued to share his gift of music with many.

John is survived by his three children, Kate Eresian Chenok (David Chenok) of Orinda, CA, Dave Eresian (Megy Nascimento) of Moraga, CA and Carol Eresian of Philadelphia, PA, and four grandchildren. He passed on to his family his love of the outdoors, appreciation of music and thirst for learning. A first-generation Armenian with a deep passion for history, he was a staunch believer in democracy and was disappointed to miss the opportunity to vote in the upcoming election.