Miriam Virginia (Kachadorian) Markarian

WORCESTER - Miriam Virginia (Kachadorian) Markarian, 92, of Worcester passed away on March 17, 2018 with her family close by her side. Born on July 20,1925 in Worcester, she was the oldest daughter of Sooren David Kachadorian and Elizabeth (Boyajian) Kachadorian.

Miriam leaves behind her sons, Kenneth George Markarian and his wife, Jane Luzbetak Markarian and granddaughters Audrey and Rebecca Markarian, and Robert Paul Markarian and his wife, Irene Schmitz Markarian. Miriam's greatest passion was her family. She spent her childhood guiding and caring for her two younger sisters, Dorothy Gulachenski and Barbara Martin (deceased). She will be deeply missed by her family, including numerous nieces and nephews.

She graduated from Worcester High School of Commerce, and soon met her husband, George K. "Ripper" Markarian, who died in 2003, Together, they raised their two sons, Ken and Bob. Miriam was a devoted wife and mother, and in 1953 she heroically saved her children and herself when their home was destroyed by the Worcester tornado.

After graduating from the New England School of Beauty Culture, Miriam owned and operated her own beauty shop, where she was able to perfectly align her artistic talents and warm personality in her career as a hairdresser. A passionate amateur artist, Miriam also loved visiting the Worcester Art Museum and exploring various artistic pursuits. Miriam was an avid learner with a thirst for knowledge. She enjoyed reading and traveling, and after retiring from hairdressing, Miriam took courses at the Worcester Art Museum, Worcester State College and Quinsigamond Community College. She particularly enjoyed studying child psychology prior to the birth of her granddaughters, and taking a variety of art classes. Miriam was very dedicated to her community. She was a member of the Daughters of Vartan and was a frequent volunteer at the Worcester Senior Center. After moving to the Pioneer Valley, Miriam became an active member of the congregation of the Center Church of South Hadley.
Miriam will be remembered for her incredible cooking, her warm and engaging spirit, and her unconditional love.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Miriam's family on Wednesday, March 21st from 10-11 a.m. at the Callahan, Fay & Caswell Funeral Home, 61 Myrtle Street, Worcester. Her funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery, Worcester. Donations in Miriam's memory may be made to Center Church, One Church Street, South Hadley, MA 01075. For more information, go to http://centerchurchsouthhadley.org/donate-give/