Irene Frances Markarian

Irene Frances Markarian died peacefully on December 2, 2017, with her daughters Anne “Bunny” Markarian and Mary M. Markarian by her side. She was born to the late Joseph Lenahan and Margaret Kennedy Lenahan in New York, NY. Irene attended Ladycliff Academy in Highland Falls, NY, and was raised in Oyster Bay, Long Island with her late siblings Margaret D. Lenahan, John J. Lenahan and Rosalie R. Lenahan. She worked throughout her life in several occupations, first as the personal assistant to Elizabeth Arden in New York, then as a photographer in Palm Beach, an ambulance driver, an interior designer, a real estate agent, and finally, until just 2 years ago, activities director at an assisted living community for seniors---But, most importantly, Irene was a loving mother and wife. Irene met the love of her life in West Palm Beach in 1952, Carnick “Mark” Markarian. They lived in many locations across the U.S. and internationally, from Louisiana to the Washington D.C. area, from Honolulu to Khartoum, Sudan, eventually making Tampa Florida their final home. Irene was born to entertain. She made all her homes a welcoming place to gather people of all ages, and especially enjoyed St Patrick’s Day and Kentucky Derby parties – and she always began the celebrations with the obligatory glass of champagne. Irene is survived by her daughters, Anne “Bunny” Markarian and Mary M. Markarian, her son-in-law Charles Trimarco, and her beautiful granddaughters Sophia M. Trimarco and Gianna M. Trimarco. Irene also leaves behind many life time friends all over the world. A memorial celebration for Irene will take place at Blount-Curry Funeral Home – Carrollwood, 3207 West Bearss Ave Tampa FL January 3rd, 2018, at 6 pm. Mass will be held January 4th at St Paul’s Catholic Church at 10:00 am, with burial following at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell. A special thanks to Dr. Sami Elchahal for all his care over the years, and the compassionate care provided by Melech Hospice House. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to LifePath Hospice, 12470 Telecom Drive, Ste 300W, Temple Terrace, Fl 33637.