Sheila Khachadoorian, 83, of Harwich, passed away on April 9, 2022 following a yearlong battle with pancreatic cancer.  Sheila was born in North Adams, MA, the daughter of Norton and Janet (Collins) Pratt. After graduating from the State  University of New York at Oswego with a bachelor's degree in education, she taught in New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts. Her last position as an administrative aide was at Holliston Middle School.
 
In 1974 Sheila married Vahan “Van” Khachadoorian and following his retirement in 1990 as Superintendent of Millis Schools, they moved to their home in Harwich where they both enjoyed other activities. Sheila was secretary to the professors in the business department of Cape Cod Community College for seven years. Then she was a layout designer for Allen’s Digest, a monthly publication concerning the U.S. Patent Office’s latest decisions.  Sheila became the administrative assistant to the Dennis Town Manager for five years and finally enjoyed summer employment at New England Vacation Rentals in Harwich.
 
The Harwich home held fond memories for the grandchildren including the Herring Run in Brewster, fishing from the jetties at Red River Beach, helping “Poppy” plant his garden and the batting cages in the “Port”.
 
A devoted couple, they looked forward to their winter home in Stuart, FL where they were very active in the condo community for over 17 years.  Sheila enjoyed creating stained glass lamps, ornaments and suncatchers, as well as reading, crosswords and singing.  Among the choral groups were, the College 200 Voice Symphonic Choir, The Chatham Chorale, Mid Cape Chorus and the church choirs.
 
She was devoted to her church, St. David’s Episcopal Church in South Yarmouth where she was a choir member, lector, layout designer for Shoreline and volunteer at the thrift shop.
 
Sheila is survived by her husband, Vahan “Van” Khachadoorian, her children Pamela Lawton, Michael Lawton and Thomas Khachadoorian and her adored grandchildren, Joseph Norton and Jocelyne Norton.  In addition she is survived by her brothers, Robert Pratt and his wife Nancy and Douglas Pratt and his wife Sylvia, niece Kimberly Lawrence and her husband Kevin, nephew Jeffrey Pratt, and sisters-in-law Rosemary Khachadoorian and Rose Guarnieri.
 
Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Hallett Funeral Home, 273 Station Ave., South Yarmouth, MA on Monday, April 25 from 4-6 P.M. A Memorial Service will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 26 at 10:00 A.M. at St. David’s Episcopal Church, Old Main St., South Yarmouth, MA.
 
Contributions in Sheila’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Dr., Tampa, FL 33607.
 
 
 

I will miss this wonderful person. Our 6:00am walks with our dogs enjoyed heartwarming conversations on our families and friends. Sheila had a good word for everyone.

We saw her at her finest in Stuart, since we were renting in Cedar Point - she was a leader, who lead with an even temperament & professional demeanor. One later example of her caring, sensitive nature was when Joel Karp died, Sheila stepped forth to be Carol's anchor. Her role extended well beyond when others moved onto other issues. There are many other examples of Sheila's gift for caring & support.

My mom was very fond of Sheila and enjoyed the many years they worked together in Bellingham. An awesome lady and good friend to all who knew her. She'll be missed.

I worked with Sheila during our early days at StallBrook…..she was always friendly, upbeat with a smile. My condolences to her family. May she RIP..

Sheila was obviously a very busy woman! I know you will cherish your memories of Sheila, and hope they will sustain you and comfort you.