Worcester, MA-Maritza (Babolian) Gazoorian, 102, of Worcester, passed away on Saturday, January 13, in UMass Memorial Hospital Memorial Campus. Her Husband of 69 years, Sarkis L. Gazoorian, died in 1992.
She is survived by 4 children, Rosalie Chorbajian of Bowie, MD, Natalie Barmakian of Belmont, Lee Gazoorian of Hunter, NY, and Marcia Gazoorian of Worcester; 6 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Maritza was predeceased by one grandson, 2 brothers and 2 sisters.
Maritza was born in Haverhill, daughter of George and Annig (Koseian) Babolian and graduated from Haverhill High School. She had worked in millinery during her high school years. Maritza was a member of The Armenian Church of Our Saviour, The AVAKS, the Women's Group of the Church and the Armenian School Board for over 50 years and the Daughters of Vartan. Maritza was a warm, vivacious person who loved being with people. She enjoyed games-especially Pinochle, daily crossword puzzles. She was a talented cook whose Armenian specialties were enjoyed and recognized by the community. In her youth, she was called upon to translate Armenian documents into English for Armenian-speaking older folks, a task for which she received their blessings, which she attributed to her long, healthy life. She will be greatly missed by family and friends.
Funeral Services will be held Wednesday, Jan.17, 11:00 a.m. in the Armenian Church of Our Saviour, 87 Salisbury Street, Worcester. Burial will be in Hope Cemetery. Calling Hours will be Tuesday 6-8 p.m. in NORDGREN MEMORIAL CHAPEL, 300 Lincoln Street. The Daughters of Vartan will conduct their Ritual at 6:30 and a Dahngark Service will be held at 7:00, during calling hours. Contributions, in lieu of flowers, may be made to The Armenian Church of Our Saviour or to New England Dream Center, Social Daycare Program, 5 Chestnut St., Attn Maureen Moylan, Worcester MA 01609.