Florence Atanian

Florence H. (Harootunian) Atanian, died peacefully at home on Tuesday, May 30, 2017 in the loving care of her family.

She was born in Worcester on April 2, 1926 to the late Agavnie and Harootun Harootunian and graduated from Commerce High School. She then married her husband, Anthony on October 12, 1947. Florence is survived by her loving son, Dana of Kingston, MA; her daughter, Daria Melendez and her husband, Nelson of Florida, as well as her three cherished granddaughters, Mrs. Devan Bolinder, Kathleen Atanian and Bianca Melendez; Florence was blessed to become the great grandmother of Liam Bolinder, her sole great grandchild in September 2016. She also leaves behind her nephews, Denis and John Harootunian. She was predeceased by her beloved brother John H. Harootunian of Cranston, RI.

Florence's first job saw her employed at Graybar Electric Company, and later at Zayer's Department Store as the Assistant Manager of the Millinary Department. Subsequently she served many years as the personal secretary to the head of WCIS o loan department executive, and continued in that capacity when WCIS merged with Shawmut Bank. Florence was a retiree of Bank of America. She also had a successful real estate business. She owned and personally managed property for over 50 years in the city of Worcester. Florence enjoyed participating in church activities, the Ladies Guild, Garmachatch. She was also an active member of the Stella Chapter of the Order of Eastern Star, serving as sister Ruth. Proud of her Armenian heritage, Florence often enjoyed Armenian music as well as partaking in local social and cultural events. Most especially, she was a truly dedicated wife and mother, who worked tirelessly to provide nothing but the best possible commitment to her family, church, and community as well as constant awareness of Armenian history and heritage. Her late husband, Tony, her dearly departed son, Darryl and her remaining children, Daria and Dana were privileged to have known the genuine love of such a wonderful wife and mother, Her spirit will live on in the hearts of her heart broken family and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Florence's family on Thursday, June 1, at 11 a.m. at the Holy Trinity Armenian Apostolic Church, 635 Grove Street, Worcester, to be followed by a funeral service in the church. Burial will be in Hope Cemetery, Worcester. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made the church.