Western Hills gym dedicated in Takian’s memory

By MERI R. KENNEDY
Posted 5/1/19

On April 20, more than 100 people joined the Takian family to dedicate the gym at Western Hills Middle Schoolas the Charles “Chet” Takian Gymnasium.

Chet, as he was affectionately known, was a …

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Western Hills gym dedicated in Takian’s memory

Posted

On April 20, more than 100 people joined the Takian family to dedicate the gym at Western Hills Middle Schoolas the Charles “Chet” Takian Gymnasium.

Chet, as he was affectionately known, was a physical education teacher in Cranston for the 30 years, with his last 28 years spent working at Western Hills Middle School. He is also known as a former waiter at Twin Oaks, where he worked for 50 years. He recently passed away at the age of 78.

After Chet retired, he did not stop. He continued to spend the following decade working with troubled children. He was referred to as “Mr. T” at the school.

His family members recalled how he was known for his nicknames and his time teaching softball in the springtime. He was fun loving, had a great sense of humor and was able to connect with multiple generations.

His two sons, Alex and Randy, both graduated from Cranston High School West. His wife, Margo, previously owned Margo Designs on Oaklawn Avenue.

Takian leaves behind six grandchildren, ranging in age from 6 to 17.

Due to his impact on the community, the family was touched that the Cranston Public Schools and School Committee agreed to dedicate the gym at Western Hills in his honor.

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  • Markdarezzo

    Well deserved!!! Mr. Takian was a great guy who had a positive impact on many, many students and the community as well. Sorry to learn of his passing. Great man!

    Thursday, May 2, 2019 Report this

  • johndicenzo24

    I attended Western Hills Junior High School in the early 80's. I can't begin to tell you what a sweetheart of a man Mr. T was. Honestly, the wonderful stories I could tell could fill a chapter in a book. To this day, some 40 years later Thanks to Mr. T I'm still known as Johnny D. So sorry to hear of his passing,

    Thursday, April 28, 2022 Report this