Mikael Ciftan

Mikael Ciftan, born August 12, 1935 passed away January 1, 2023 from a recurring respiratory illness.

Mikael was an Armenian born in Istanbul, Turkey. He moved to the U.S. to earn a master’s at MIT and it was there he met the love of his life, Elinor Klein. They were married for 61 years. Beginning at MIT and then at Raytheon, he co-invented the ruby laser. He received his PhD from Duke University and was an adjunct professor in physics there.

He spent his career at The Army Research Office to support advanced applied physics for the US military. His brilliance was shown in all things, including science, engineering, art and cooking.

He leaves behind, a daughter Suzanne Hens, son-in-law Marc Hens, a grandson Camron Hens, as well as brother-in-law Robert Klein, sister-in-law Yolande Klein, three nieces Arlene Kraus, Ani Kindall, Johanna Klein, and a nephew Dana Klein.

Mikael was preceded in death by his wife Elinor, sister Shamiram Armen, mother Akabi and father Sarkis Ciftan.