Obituary: Maureen Krekian, 83, of Middletown

Maureen Krekian
February 22, 1933 - March 18, 2016

Maureen Krekian (O’Shea) beloved wife of the late Sam Krekian, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 18. She and Sam were married for 41 years and spent their early days in West Hartford before moving and settling in Middletown where she lived for more than 50 years.

Living on Nejako Drive and becoming a member of St. Pius Church formed the foundation for lifelong friendships and a spiritual life. Maureen was an active member at St. Pius belonging to the church Choir, Rosary Altar and the St. Veronica’s Mother Circle. Maureen spent her early motherhood days at home raising children and later worked at Woodward Town and Country Pharmacy.

Maureen had a beautiful singing voice and belonged to the Middlesex Hospital Vocal Chords for more than 15 years. She was an avid reader, loved gardening, watching Jeopardy, reading the daily paper, watching the Yankees and UCONN basketball. She was an active member at MILE, and served as curriculum coordinator for two years.

As a young girl, Maureen survived the Hartford Circus Fire. Thanks to the heroic gestures of many but one young man in particular, Maureen escaped in order to fulfill the life she was meant to have. A life surrounded by family and friends which brought her much joy right up until the end of her time with us. She and her daughters recorded her memories of the fire at Storycorps in Hartford which is archived at the Library of Congress, and was broadcast nationally on NPR.

Even after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, Maureen remained optimistic and always cheerful even in the face of the many obstacles that come with Parkinson’s. She wasn’t about to let that define her. Strong of mind and spirit is how those who knew her well will remember her.

Maureen received excellent care throughout her illness. The family would like to thank Drs. Margaret O’Donahuge and Otto Weis. She was well taken care of and formed loving bonds with the staff at the Village at South Farms and Portland Care and Rehabilitation.

Maureen is survived by her daughter and husband Lynn and Rusty Everett of West Hartford, son Richard Krekian of Manhattan, daughter Joanne Krekian of Middletown and her loving granddaughter Emma Everett. Sister in-law Marian O’Shea of FL, and brother in-law George Bagdasarian of Newington, several nieces and nephews and many friends with whom she shared long and deep relationships.

A funeral liturgy will be held Wednesday, March 23, at St. Pius X Church Westfield St. in Middletown at 10 a.m. Friends may call Tuesday from 5 to 7 p.m. at Biega Funeral Home, 3 Silver St. Middletown.

Contributions to either the Michael J. Fox Foundation or the Middlesex Hospital Vocal Chords.