The Marootian family and my family (the Dabbakians) go way back – I’m talking decades. We were neighbors in Clifton, NJ for approximately 40 years, and attended every church event together for years beyond that. Whenever the Marootians invited us for an impromptu get-together, Anne was sure to serve a tableful of delicious nibbles that she quickly whipped-up. Not only was Anne a terrific cook, she told some pretty funny jokes, too!
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| Anne Marootian in the kitchen at St. Leon Armenian Church, smiling and cooking – as always! |
With my mother’s recent passing, I’ve been dwelling on
family memories more than ever. When I heard the news that our dear friend,
Anne, passed away just 2 weeks after my mother, I was heartbroken. (You might
recall two of Anne’s recipes that have been featured on our website, chorag and
tourshi. I’m hoping her family will send a few more of her treasured recipes our
way.)
I would like to share a slightly edited portion of Anne’s
obituary with you:
immigrant parents, passed away on November 20, 2012 at the age of 97. She married
Zaven Marootian in 1938 and together raised 3 wonderful sons. Anne and Zaven owned and operated Zaven’s Luncheonette in Paterson, NJ, where
she was the chief cook and bookkeeper, and later was bookkeeper in Marootian
Trading Corporation. The family moved to Clifton in 1959. Anne and Zaven were
both very active parishioners in St. Leon Armenian Church in Fair Lawn, where
Anne was a noted cook of Armenian cuisine. She headed up the Food Committee for
many Food Festivals and social functions. Anne was well known for her wonderful
hospitality, joyful spirit and sense of humor.”
Anne was a very special woman who will truly be missed. We
extend our heartfelt sympathy to the entire Marootian family.
Very lovely. And this is why it is so important that you capture and preserve the recipes and culture that surrounds them, Robyn!
So true, Bonnie. That is our goal.