George (JoJo) Setrag Kazarian, 74, died on June 19, 2026 after a year-long battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on June 5, 1952 in Pontiac, Michigan to Sylvia Papazian Kazarian and George Kazarian, he graduated from Waterford Township High School and while attending Oakland University, played back-up bass for BB King at Motown studios. His mother told him he had to get a “real job,” so he graduated from beauty school and got a job at upscale salons in NYC. While there, he met his mentor, Jerry Gordon of J Gordon Designs in Chicago. They traveled throughout Europe doing workshops for Intercoiffure and rode the wave of the blow-dry era.
JoJo opened JoJo A Salon on Oak Street in the Gold Coast in 1980. His clientele included a Who’s Who of local celebrities, newscasters and politicians. He served many of these clients for many years. In 1987 he married the love of his life, Sally Sloane and they raised their 3 boys: Trevor, Seth and Cody in their beloved Oak Park community.
Something of a Renaissance man, JoJo continued playing music including the sitar. He also loved cooking, especially Armenian food, and enjoyed yoga, running and painting in various mediums.
He is survived by many who loved him dearly: relatives, friends, clients, neighbors and his immediate family.
Services will be private at First United Church of Oak Park. Donations can be made to the American Cancer Society.