Dr. Michael R. Chobanian

Dr. Michael R. Chobanian, 74, passed away on August 23, 2018 with his wife Janet by his side.

Born in Flint, Dr. Chobanian was a proud graduate of Flint Central High School, the University of Michigan (BA, ’65) and the University of Michigan Medical School (MD, ’70).  He was an esteemed pediatrician in Grand Rapids for 36 years, first in private practice and after retirement, at Cherry Street Health Center. 

Dr. Chobanian was appreciated by parents and patients alike for his depth of knowledge, straightforward demeanor, and dry sense of humor.  His relationship with those in his care is best summed up by this quote from a former patient: “He was the most intelligent, ornery, funny, sarcastic man and the best diagnostician/pediatrician EVER…and we loved him more for those qualities because he had an incredible wit and heart!”

Dr. Chobanian was adored by his four daughters, of whom he was incredibly proud.  He was known for his sharp intellect, quick wit, and enduring love of puns.  Dr. Chobanian was a voracious reader who loved history. He also took great joy in gourmet cooking and his beloved basset hounds.  

Dr. Chobanian is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Janet, who he affectionately called ‘Blondie’; his daughters Margot Chobanian (Steven Snider), Julia Hillary (Richard), Carrie Chobanian (David Blanchard), Sarah Rose Pinsky (Todd); and his grandchildren Ceara, Michael, Patrick, Tara and Samuel Hillary, Anabelle and Sonny Chobanian-Blanchard, and Charlotte and Nathan Pinsky. 

Visitation will be held at Metcalf & Jonkoff Funeral Home (4291 Cascade Road, SE) on Thursday, August 30, from 2:00-4:00 PM and 6:00-8:00 PM.  A memorial service will take place on Friday August 31, at 11:00 AM at Trinity Lutheran Church (2700 Fulton St. East). 

Contributions in his memory may be made to Basset Hound Rescue of Michigan (www.bhrom.com), an organization he loved.  The family kindly requests no flowers.

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