Obituary: Sylvia (Simonian) Merriman

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PROSPECT — Mrs. Sylvia (Simonian) Merriman passed away at Abbott Terrace Vitas Unit on Tuesday, April 14, 2014 from Alzheimer complications.

Born Feb. 6, 1926, in Whitinsville, Mass. Her parents were Oscar and Takouki Simonian. Sylvia attended Northbridge High School, Worcester School of Business and Our Lady of the Elms College.

She was the wife of Douglas B. Merriman, they married in 1956 and moved to Prospect. Her business experience at Whitin Machine Works led her to the W.T. Manning Co. in Waterbury. In 1960 the family moved to Rockville, where she worked for Dr. Joseph Kristen and Dr. Luke O’Connor. In 1963 the family moved back to Prospect and she worked for Dr. William Cohen in Waterbury. Beginning in 1967 she worked for the Cheshire Board of Education in multiple areas of administration. Her longest tenure was at W10F Radio from 1975-1992, owned by Merv Griffin.

Her passion from childhood was a love of portrait painting, especially of her two children and the family’s Pomeranian pets.

Her giving character was immeasurable, beginning with her sister’s children up to her last days. She was proud of her Armenian heritage, which remains with her children and grandchildren.

Family and friends were blessed with her creation of exotic desserts and gourmet meals at holiday gatherings.

She is survived by her husband of 58 plus years, Douglas, and her brother, Harry Simonian, of Whitinsville, Mass.; her son, Douglas and his wife, Lisa; her daughter, M. Carrie Anderson and her companion, John Kerner, all of Prospect and five grandchildren; Heather Tiganella, Lauren and Scott Anderson; John and Samuel Merriman; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister, Sarah.

Prospect Memorial Funeral Home, 72 Waterbury Road, Prospect has been entrusted with the arrangements. There are no calling hours and burial will be at the convenience of the family. A time of remembrance will be held at Baki’s Restaurant, 105 Waterbury Road, Route 69, on Sunday, April 26, from 11 am to 2:30 pm.

To place online condolences, visit www.prospectmemorial.com.