OBITUARY: JOHN KAISHIAN

John Kaishian, a visionary entrepreneur, devoted family man, and proud member of the Armenian community, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026. Born in West Allis, Wisconsin, John was the youngest of eight children and the second of a pair of twins. His father, Yeghia, emigrated from Tomarza, Anatolia, in 1911, and his mother, Armenouhi, was a survivor of the 1915 Armenian Genocide. From his earliest years, John faced numerous challenges, including congenital disfigurements and hearing difficulties, yet he transformed obstacles into opportunities—a trait that defined his life.

John’s entrepreneurial spirit emerged at age six, selling ears of corn from his father’s yard, later becoming a paperboy, bicycle mechanic, and auto mechanic. At just 15, he built his own race car and set track records at area speedways before obtaining a driver’s license. He went on to promote and own multiple speedways, including Hales Corners Speedway, becoming America’s longest single-owner speedway operator. John served as president of Wisconsin Auto Racing Inc. and was inducted into the United States Auto Club (USAC) Hall of Fame.

Beyond racing, John founded Midwest Bleachers, supplying stadium-style seating across more than 20 states. A skiing enthusiast, he transformed unused land in Greendale, Wisconsin, into the Crystal Ridge Ski Area and the Rock Sports and Entertainment Complex, personally shaping the landscape to provide recreation for youth and adults alike.

John was deeply committed to his Armenian heritage and faith. He was a lifelong member of St. John Armenian Church, active in the choir, and a past commander of the Cilicia Lodge of the Knights of Vartan. With his wife Lynn, he generously supported church activities, donating equipment, the church hall in memory of his father, and stained glass windows illuminating the altar. For three decades, John and Lynn shared their 50-acre lake property for the Midwest Regional Hye Camp, earning the Hye Camp Gratitude Award, the St. Nersess Pontifical Shield, and Armenian Church Member of the Year in 2026.

Family was John’s greatest pride. He and his wife Lynn celebrated 67 years of marriage, raising five devoted children. He is survived by Lynn, daughter Kathleen, son Fr. Sahak (Michael), son James, daughter-in-law Lana, grandchildren Jacob, Michael Andrew, and Max, twin sister Jennie Boranaian, and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Yeghia and Armenouhi, siblings Zabel, Shakey, Garabed, Johnnie, Michael, and Mesrope, and children Peter and Kenneth, and daughter-in-law Tammy.

John’s warmth, engaging smile, and generosity left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He touched countless lives, enriched the community, and made the world a better place. His legacy of family, faith, and vision will be cherished and remembered by all who loved him.

Visitation
St John Armenian Church
7820 W. Layton Avenue
Greenfield, WI 53220
Wednesday May 20, 2026, from 4-7pm and

Funeral Service
St. John Armenian Church
Thursday May 21, 2026
following 9:00 to 10:00 am visitations.

Burial will be at Wisconsin Memorial Park Cemetery

Donations in Lieu of flowers may be made to

St. John Armenian Church
7825 W. Layton Ave, Greenfield, WI 53220

Or online at the following link www.stjohnarmenianchurch.org/ilof