To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Lydia Nunes
January 4, 2008
I did not know Marta that well but from our initial meeting I knew I had met a very special individual. She touched so many people in her special way. Everyone I know including myself will miss her special smile and her enjoyable personallity.
Jo-Ann Nickerson
December 23, 2007
Dear DiBenedetto and Malatian Families: I am sorry for not paying my respects earlier than now, but I've just found out today that Marta has gone to a better place. The angels up in heaven are lucky to have her. She was an angel here on earth doing all the good deeds throughout her life, never once thinking of herself and always thinking of her loving family and what her had to accomplish in helping others. We will always treasure the gifts she gave us. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Diane McCurley
December 22, 2007
To Marta's Family and Friends,
As someone who knew Marta for many years and was priviledged to serve with her as a GFWC of Mass, Junior I am extraordinarily saddened by her passing. I was the fortunate person to assemble the memory book for her time as Jr. Director. Her warmth and sense of humor were unmatched. What an incredible time she (and all of us) had! As it says on the cover--"Treasure the Gift" and we shall always treasure the gift to us that was Marta.
Carolyn Morrison
December 13, 2007
Dear Rick and Family With heartfelt sympathy and prayers from the GFWC Maryland Federation. Marta was the epitome of a Federated clubwoman. She will be greatly missed. May you all be comforted in your memories.
Carolyn D. Morrison,
President 2006-2008
Jo Rousseau GFWCState President 2000-2002
December 13, 2007
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Mary Thompson
December 13, 2007
Dear Rick, Michael & Christopher
No words are adequate at this time. But know that your are in our thoughts. Marta had many friends in GFWC and will be greatly missed.
Yours in Federation,
President 2004-2006
Geneva Lawson
December 11, 2007
Dear Family
On behalf of the GFWC Pioneer Junior Women's Club I would like to send our deepest sympathy. Marta was a great person and a great friend. She was always interested in our club because of our small size. She was always amazed at what we could accomplish and would continue to give us encouragement. It was because of her that I became involved on state board, which helped to keep our club going. She gave me support while at National Convention in Florida. I know it is hard especially at this time of the year. Just remember she will always be in your heart as well as with the many she touched.
Libby Wiers
December 11, 2007
My sympathy and prayers to Marta's loving family. She was such a special person, warm, friendly, caring and making everyone she came in contact with feel welcome and valued. I met her first through GFWC New England Region and have been blessed by her encouragement since that first moment. She will be sorely missed, but remembered in our hearts forever.
Leola Bonge
December 10, 2007
My heartfelt sympathy to Marta's family. I knew Marta through GFWC. Her capable leadership skills will be missed by her GFWC family. In addition, I will miss that great smile she greeted everyone with at Federation events.
Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers during this sad time.
Leola Bonge
GFWC Nebraska, President
2002-2004
Bennington, Nebraska
Pamela Hughes-Tice
December 10, 2007
To Marta's Family, and Sisters in Federation,
Please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of such a wonderful, kind and loving lady! We served together as Junior State Directors, often as roommates, and I hold dearly the memories of our late night 'girl' talks and wonderful times at GFWC Conventions, especially the 'Junior Night' escapades! She was truly one of a kind and will be missed by all who were privileged to call her friend.
Margie Kalajian Glikas
December 10, 2007
It has been many years since I have had the pleasure of seeing or being with Marta. The last time I saw her was at Joseph's Aquarium in Boston over 20 years ago at a dinner dance. I remember how we laughed as we danced by the fish tanks! We talked for a while and I was so happy for her and the life she made for herself with her husband and their two little boys. She was so proud and rightly so!!
Growing up, our times together were spent with our families and friends at St. James Armenian Church in Watertown, where we all grew up with friendship and love.
This news of Marta's passing has come as such a shock. She will never be forgotten. I can see how she has touched so many lives while she was doing something she loved very much.
May the many happy times she shared with all of you be the first ones you remember when you think of her.
With sincere condolances!
Paula Schlice
December 10, 2007
Marta's Family
Marta was such a wonderful person with a great sense of humor. Her presence at the GFWC-Wisconsin convention in May of 2006 is a memory I will always treasure. I am sure you heard her travel adventures. Thank you for sharing her with us.
Jan Bailey
December 10, 2007
Dear Dibenedetto and Malatian family: As the State President of the Oklahoma General Federation of Women, I only knew Marta through GFWC but she always had a smile on her face and a kind word. As she was my sister in federation, she will be truly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with your families as you embrace the Christmas holidays and the days ahead. Her memory will always be with us.
Jeanette Flood
December 10, 2007
Marta was a great person. I met her in Wisconsin at our State Convention and she was the greatest. We had a lot of fun with her. She will be missed very much.
Kathryn Durgerian (Malconian)
December 9, 2007
Rick,Michael and Chris always know how much she was loved and will never be forgotten. Marta and I were friends for many many years. We both knew that our hearts were bonded. Life is precious and special which is how I would describe Marta.
June Alfano
December 8, 2007
I am at a loss for words to express what is in my heart for Marta. I echo all of the adjectives that appear in the preceding messages to describe our Federation friend. We shared a love for our Massachusetts Federation--she as a Junior and I as a General--and had many a discussion about its future. Marta was a proven leader--loved and respected by all whose lives she touched. She was "full of life." And that is how I will remember her! Farewell until we meet again, dear Marta.
June D. Alfano, President
GFWC of Massachusetts--1988-1990
Written in Nokomis, Florida
Kim Frankian
December 8, 2007
I knew Marta for only 4 short weeks while temping at NYLIM but needed to send my sympathies to support what you already know - she was a precious soul - one of those people who I knew I would never forget no matter where we our paths led us. She took me under that ever-protective wing of hers and I feel everyone has suffered a great loss - those who already knew her and those who had yet to have the privilege
Connie Tagg
December 8, 2007
Dear Rick,Michael and Christopher
My heartfelt sympathies to all of you at this most difficult time in your lives. I have known Marta for a few years through G.F.W.C. and have marveled at all of the energy she has given to this wonderful organization.I had the privilege of sitting with her at the Fall Meeting in Holyoke in Nov.I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers.
Kathy White
December 8, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the loves of Marta's life .. Her husband and sons. I met Marta through GFWC and over the years she became a dear friend. My last time sharing with Marta was on our trip to DC for orientation and we laughed and shared on the trip down and back. She was a kind, loving person that would help anyone she knew. She was always thinking of others and the best for GFWC. We have all lost a very special "angel". My heart breaks knowing she will not be with us so I will hold on to all the wonderful memories. God Bless Marta's loving family at this most difficult time.
Debbie Strahanoski
December 8, 2007
To Marta's Family -
Many caring thoughts go out to each of you at this most difficult time. I'm filled with great memories of Marta's especially the Boston Convention, she was the first person I met and she made me feel so welcomed. Ever since that convention, I have looked forward to conventions and board meetings and enjoying her company. She will be so sadly missed.
Elaine Jefferson
December 8, 2007
Dear Rick, Michael, Christopher, Kenny & Trina. My heartfelt sympathies go out to all of you. I have known Marta since we were young girls together sharing in all the wonderful times at St. James. Of course who can forget the parties at 77 Shattuck Road. The last time I saw Marta was at the Reunion Dance at St. James and as always her smile lit up the room and it was like yesterday that we had been together. I will treasure that night now knowing that it was the last time I had seen Marta. God Bless Marta and God Bless all of you as you mourn the loss of your beautiful Wife, Mother, Daughter, Sister & Aunty. My parents Andy & Bea Ohannessian also send their deepest sympathies.
Barbara Conaway
December 8, 2007
Dear Family memebers,
What a loss to the General Federation of Clubs as well to you her family. She will be truly missed by all who knew her. You are all in my prayers.
Barb Conaway
GFWC Indiana Federation of Club
President-elect
New York Life Coworker
December 7, 2007
Please know that there were many lives touched just by knowing Marta. She will be greatly missed. She truly loved her family and spoke of her "4 boys" (Rick, Michael, Christopher and her father) every single day. She was so proud of all of you! She was the "go-to" person that was able to fix most any problem and took great pride in her work. I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to call her a colleague and have her as friend.
Patricia Williams
December 7, 2007
I was among those who were privelaged enough to be able to serve as a State Junior Director during Marta's term as GFWC Director of Junior Clubs.She was such a dynamic leader, always diplomatic and a true inspiration.Not only was she my Director, I was blessed to become her friend. Marta was one of the most genuine and loving people I have ever met. I will cherish our times together. I will never forget watching Marta leap in the Carribbean Sea to swim with the stingrays and our last time together on the boat ride in San Antonio. What fun times Marta's Cruisin'Juniors always had!She touched the hearts of so many.
Nancy Greenberg
December 7, 2007
Dear DiBenedetto (Malatian) Family, Although I have only known Marta for a few years, she certainly touched my life. As a fellow GFWC member, I will always recall the many conferences we shared and the wonderful, happy (sometimes silly)memories that will always bring a smile. Marta was a truly inspirational woman. I will miss greeting her whenever our clubwomen meet. I will miss her laughter. I will miss her encoraging words. She left a deep impression on my heart. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Shawna & Dan Branigan
December 7, 2007
The DiBenedetto Family,
We are so sorry to hear of the loss of such an amazing woman and mother. Our hearts and prayers are with you.
Aileen Buckley
December 7, 2007
Dear Rick,
Although I never had the pleasure of meeting Marta, I know how much she meant to you and the boys. You are all in my prayers through this impossibly difficult time.
Patty Cato
December 7, 2007
To Marta's family,
I am one of many of Marta's GFWC friends. We all loved her laugh, her smile, her hugs, and most of all the love that she gave us. I feel like someone has kicked my heart and I am having trouble knowing that she is gone. There is no one to replace her and like the others have said she is now an angel in heaven. Our hearts go out to you in this time of sorry. Just know that all of us knew how much she loved each one of you.
Ena Allen
December 7, 2007
Dear Rick,
I am so sorry of your sudden loss. I cannot fathom the sadness that you and your sons are feeling at this time. I remember all those stories that you told me about Marta and although I did not know her personally, it was through these stories that I knew she was a wonderful, loving and caring person. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless
Charles Krikorian
December 7, 2007
DiBenedetto and Malatian Families So sorry to hear of your loss. Please accept my deepest sympathy. I hope you can find some comfort knowing Marta is in a better place. For God so loved the world he gave his only son that whoever believes in him should not perish but have everlasting life John 3:16
Dorothy Lowe Greene
December 7, 2007
I have enjoyed working with and knowing Marta through GFWC. Marta was always a warm and friendly person. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. We will all miss her.
Jennifer Boudette
December 7, 2007
To the DiBenedetto and Malatian families,
Marta and I worked together for many years at NYLIM. She always had a bright smile and a kind word, and jumped in to help in every situation. I will miss her tremendously, and extend my deepest sympathies to you.
Sincerely,
Marla Zeneski
December 7, 2007
Though I had met Marta only within the past 2 or 3 years, she was kind and thoughtful, and loved the Federation and its members. I cannot express how much everyone who knew her will miss her. I am very sorry for her families' loss.
Jeri Lyn Cancel
December 7, 2007
Dear DiBenedetto & Malatian Families,
My time of knowing Marta and sharing the joy we found in our work with GFWC and of the beach will remain with me always. One memory is that of swimming with the "rays" on the Junior Cruise last year. She was dedicated to all who's life she touched. Marta left footprints in my heart that will be cherished. I had the opportunity to serve with her and her love for you and your family was obvious. Marta will always be a part of our lives and hearts. Thank you for sharing her with all of us.
Joanne Jordan
December 7, 2007
To Marta's family,
Marta was an inspiration to me. Her enthusiasm and spirit encouraged me no matter what. An angel in heaven, she will be with all of us forever.
Dawn Behen (formerly Veilleux)
December 7, 2007
To Marta's family,
I have known Marta for many years and we served together as Director of Junior Clubs for our states during the same two years. I have many wonderful memories of Marta, always laughing or smiling...no matter how little sleep we had all had during our conventions and board meetings. She was a very warm, funny, loving and special woman and I will greatly miss her. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Karen Hobson
December 7, 2007
To Marta's much-beloved family: There are no words to describe how sorry I am for what you have lost. I worked with Marta and she also was a friend. Marta was everyone's best friend, big sister, mom, aunt, mentor and trusted confidante all rolled into one. She cared and gave so much to all she knew. I feel so lucky to have had her as a friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Nancy Barston
December 7, 2007
Rick, Chris & Mike,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time of sorrow. Please know that Marta was a wonderful and caring woman, and an inspiration to many. She will be deeply missed.
Brenda Bennett
December 7, 2007
To Rick, Michael, & Chris
I met Marta in Florida at Convention and was instantly drawn to her. I was very priviledged to be able to serve with her as Junior Director. All of us became close friends mainly due to Marta. She was a beautiful special lady, who cared for everyone. She was an excellent leader and was loved and admired by everyone who got to know her. She always spoke about you when we were together at meetings, and she cherished and loved all three of you. She will not only be missed by you and your family, but also her GFWC family. We will all miss her laughter, smiles and hugs.
You are in my thoughts and prayers. May your memories and the knowledge she was dearly loved by all who knew her bring you peace.
Brenda
Linda Kreussling
December 7, 2007
To Marta's family,
It is with a heavy heart and tears in my eyes that I extend my condolences on Marta's passing. We served as Junior Director's together. What I will remember the most about Marta are the hugs she gave and her great laugh. She saw the goodness in everyone and she will be missed terribly.
Linda Kreussling
New York
Dawn Wiers
December 7, 2007
Dear DiBenedetto/Malatian families
The world has lost one of its best. Marta was an angel sent to us from God. She would laugh to hear me say that but Marta was one of the funniest, most genuine people I was ever blessed to meet. I'm surprised it took the Lord this long to call her home. As one of her GFWC sisters, I was privilaged to have known her in her volunteer journey in GFWC. Her GFWC family will miss her deeply. God bless your family during this time of greif.
Jennie Babcock
December 7, 2007
Dear Rick and Family:
No words can ever express the feelings that all of you are going through right now. Many, many people are praying for you and your family. My heartfelt sympathies go out to each of you, know that you are in my prayers. The closeness that your family shares will help each of you get through these difficult days. Rick, I know how much your family means to you, I remember all the stories you shared with us, hold on to those memories as it is those that will help you deal with your loss. God Bless each of you.
Lisa Fernstrum
December 7, 2007
To Marta's Family:
I had the honor of serving with Marta in GFWC. She had a way of touching everyones hearts. She was a wonderful, amazing lady. We were so blessed to have had her in our lives, and to have known her.
My prayers go out to you.
Jeri O'Connell
December 7, 2007
Rick, Michael and Chris,
I am so sorry for your loss. Marta was a beautiful person and brought many smiles to a lot of people. She will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to at this time.
Marianne Potter
December 7, 2007
Marta touched many of our lives. She was a beautiful person who will be missed. May you know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Arlene Creeden
December 6, 2007
Rick, Mike and Chris,
I have known Marta for many years and have shared numerous wonderful GFWC Junior memories with her and she will be truly missed. I would often hear her talking to you all on her cell phone when we were at different GFWC meetings and I know how much you all ment to her. My family and I will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.
GFWC-NH President Elect
Kathleen Seeger
December 6, 2007
To Marta's beloved family, I extend my deepest sympathy. I loved her in her flip flops - she had an infectious laughter and smile --Through GFWC, Marta touched my life and my heart.
Kathleen A. Seeger
Marji Dixon (Jollay)
December 6, 2007
Rick, Mike and Chris, You are in my prayers and my heart goes out to you. I haven't seen Marta in a long time, but my memories of her are treasured. Marta had such joy for life, such passion for the GFWC Juniors and so much love for her you as her family! I am so sorry for your loss.
Carla Goff
December 6, 2007
Dear DiBenedetto Family,
It is with a very heavy heart that I write this tonight. I am deeply saddened by the news of Marta's death. Marta was an instant friend to me during my time as Tennessee Director of Junior Clubs, and I was proud to continue to serve with her during her time as International Director. She was a wonderful person, with such a caring heart. Marta always had a smile on her face and something fun up her sleeve! Although distance kept us from seeing each other, I always looked forward to her cards and notes. She was and will always be a special person in my life.
Patti Boyce
December 6, 2007
Dear DiBenedetto Family,
I'm so sorry for your loss. When I talk about my time on the GFWC Jr Board the first thing I tell people is friendships that came out of that- particularly with Marta. She will be sorely missed.
Natalie Hinkle
December 6, 2007
Rick, Michael & Christopher,
I met Marta in 2001 through GFWC and instantly knew she was a wonderful person. She knew how to make us laugh and I enjoyed our time together. It was a privilege to serve with her on the GFWC Junior Board. She was a excellent leader. She will be sadly missed. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Martha Scarsdale
December 6, 2007
Words alone seem inadequate to express my deepest sorrow. Marta was a very special lady & deeply loved & admired by all in Federation. Her contagious smile & laugh will be remembered always! Marta was a fantastic GFWC Junior Director & I was priviledged to serve with her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten!
Martha E. Scarsdale
GFWC/MA President, 2004-2006
Patty Salomon
December 6, 2007
Dearest DiBenedetto and Malatian families, I send my deepest sympathies to you all. I have known Marta for 12 or so years through the GFWC of MA Juniors and she is a wonderful person. Her kindness and sweet, fun-loving, bubbly, personality will forever be in my heart. I will miss her very much, and I know she will be missed by everyone who has had the pleasure of knowing her. My thoughts are with you.
Jean Probert
December 6, 2007
To the DiBenedetto and Malatian families,
Please accept my deepest sympathy for your terrible loss. I did not know Marta well, but had the pleasure of meeting her when I joined GFWC of MA Jr's. She was always so welcoming and inspiring to me when I saw her at various state meetings. I consider it an honor to have had the opportunity to meet and learn from such a kind and talented woman. She will remain in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Jean Probert- President, GFWC of MA, Milford Junior Woman's Club
Ann Gentile
December 6, 2007
I haven't seen Marta in almost 2 years, but she was one of kind and someone I will never forget.
She was so lovely and I so enjoyed her. God Bless you all in your time of grief.
I feel blessed to have known her.
Sincerely,
Ann Gentile
Christine H.
December 6, 2007
She was a very beautiful person inside and out. She will be greatly missed.
Mary Kaye Ernest
December 6, 2007
Rick, Michael, and Christopher,
I am so sorry to hear about the sudden loss of Marta. She was a tremendous clubwoman and a good friend. Please know that you are all in our prayers during this time.
Candi Aubin
December 6, 2007
Marta will always be a treasure in our hearts. GFWC will not be the same without Marta and her dedicated service. She will be missed. May the Lord Bless you and keep you in His Care.
Paula Johnston
December 6, 2007
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Robert Fazekas
December 6, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the Marta DiBenedetto (Malatian)Families. She was a co-worker and a friend. A more giving person could not have been taken from us. I loved her and will miss her.
Missy Saintignan
December 6, 2007
You have many people thinking of you around the country. My family and I are keeping you in our prayers. I am so sorry for your loss.
Roberta J.
December 6, 2007
Rick, Michael & Chris
Words cannot express the depth of emotions being sent your way. Marta was a "pure" soul who gave so much to others. She will be greatly missed.
Cheryl Suchanick
December 6, 2007
She was the sunshine of our office. She was kind, funny, and always had a smile on her face. I'm going to miss that incredible laugh of hers- she was one of my favorite people here at work. We will all miss her dearly.
My thoughts and prayers are with you all-
Cheryl Suchanick
Becky Weber
December 6, 2007
Rick, Michael and Chris,
Marta was a dedicated clubwoman and wonderful friend. I feel so honored to have called her friend. I will always treasure the memories I have of our time together on the GFWC Junior Board. Please know how much the GFWC clubwomen cherished her and how much she cherished the three of you.
Toni Farber
December 6, 2007
So shocking that one of life's treasures - a very wonderful and caring person - was taken from us so young and so suddenly. I was very blessed and fortunate to have Marta as a dear friend. Loved by so very many she will remain in our hearts forever. Rick, Michael, and Christopher - I will pray for your stength, courage and peace. Love, Toni
Susan Frattasio
December 6, 2007
To Marta's family,
I am so sorry for your great loss. I met Marta several years ago after joining GFWC Jr's. She always would greet me with a big smile and a huge hug! The last time I saw her was in October at a Jr's conferene. I will miss her.
God Bless,
Sue Frattasio
President
GFWC Auburn Jr. Womans' Club
Teresa Loftin Scarpato
December 6, 2007
I was shocked and sad to hear the news of Marta's untimely death. She was such a warm, funny and amazing woman. I didn't know her well, but every interaction I had with her through GFWC and Juniors was positive and nearly always worth a laugh. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family and friends. IJF, Teresa
Martin Joyce
December 6, 2007
Rick, Micheal & Chris
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Marta. If there is anything I can do please do not hestitate to ask. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless.
Martin
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