Harriette Markow

Harriette was born in Brooklyn, New York on February 15th, 1919 to Abraham and Rebecca Tobin. She attended and enjoyed New York schools until the age of 15, at which time she hitchhiked to Florida to be with her father, who went down earlier to start a soft-drink plant during the Great Depression. Harriette graduated from Florida State University with the intent of becoming a doctor. Along the way she met Theodore (Ted) Markow and after a short courtship, was married – a partnership that would last nearly 60 years.

After marrying, Ted and Harriette’s “excellent adventure” began. First came Havana, Cuba, where they started and ran a 7 Up factory. Then on to La Paz, Bolivia, where Ted worked for the U.S. State Department. Next, came Kensington, Maryland where they bought a wonderful house on Everett Street and raised two sons (and Harriette raised magnificent gardens). Following that were stints in Santiago, Chile; Bogota, Colombia; and Asuncion, Paraguay, finally winding up back in Kensington.

Harriette excelled at many things, but among the most important were that of wife, mother, family “doctor,” and wonderful friend to many, many people. Among her passions were: spending time with family and friends, photography, music, art, discussions of all types, and gardening - a passion she has passed down to her son and daughter-in-law. Harriette also had a knack for fixing things: both hardware and human-ware. She just had that “knack” (which most dared not refuse!).

Among the many adjectives that have been used for Harriette, are: Vibrant, gutsy, caring, self-assured, all-knowing, spunky, loving, accepting, and determined. And in the determined department, Harriette was queen. Few dared say no to her once she made up her mind to do something. And for good reason – she was usually right! And while it may have been exasperating at times, it was always meant in the spirit of good intent, kindness, and love. And that was the essence of Harriette.

Harriette is survived by two sons: Andrew J. Markow of Frederick, MD, and Theodore G. Markow, Jr. (and wife, Beth) of Brunswick, ME – four granddaughters: Melanie Potter, Emily Markow, Anna Markow, and Gia Markow and one great-granddaughter: Meredith Potter – nephews Bruce Fischer, Kenneth Tobin, and niece Amy (Tobin) Schwartz – and many cousins, near cousins, and dear friends.

Harriette will be interred at King David Memorial Gardens cemetery (National Memorial Park - 7400 Lee Highway, Falls Church, VA) on Friday, October 28th, at 12:30 pm. There will be a short graveside service followed by a reception.

In lieu of flowers, a donation is appreciated to:

Brookside Gardens

1800 Glenallan Avenue

Wheaton, MD 20902

301-962-1400

www.montgomeryparks.org/brookside/donations.shtm