ISABELLE ZAKARIAN KERSHNER

Isabelle was born on December 6, 1916, in her parents' farmhouse in Selma, CA. She passed away on Tuesday, October 14, 2014. She is the second of four sisters raised on the family farm. Belle, as she was fondly referred to, grew up with a strong sense of love for her country and family. Although she had no children of her own, her numerous nieces and nephews were so very special to her. Her passion for helping others was realized by her profession as a Registered Physical Therapist. This was a title she bore very proudly. She was employed by Shriners Hospital, San Francisco and later by Los Angeles County Hospital. Isabelle met Therman Croner "Eddie" Kershner, and they married in 1948. They were married 31 years until his passing in 1979. At that time she relocated to Fresno to be surrounded by her family. The family would like to acknowledge the wonderful caregivers who tirelessly took care of Isabelle as if she were their own mother. Thank you Hasmik Sarkissian, Maritza Marquez and Gayane Ghazaryan. The family would also like to acknowledge all the neighbors who kept a loving watchful eye for many years. We will miss her gentle caring nature, sweet warm smile, generous spirit and zest for life. Isabelle is survived by her sister, Evelyn Zakarian Oakes; nieces, Cynthia (Ken) Norian, Laurel (Walter) Karabian, Melena (Keith) Koligian, Tamara (James) Garry, and Denise (Krikor) Hovsepian; nephew, Lance (Trina) Hairabedian; great-nephews, Thomas Norian, Timothy Norian, Dr. John Norian, Adam Koligian, Phillip Koligian, Grant Garry and Max Hairabedian; great-nieces, Cate Norian, Taylor Garry, and Madeline Karabian; and seven great-great nieces and nephews. We love you Auntie Belle. A Graveside Service will be held at Masis Ararat Cemetery on Tuesday, October 21, 2014, at 11:00 a.m. Remembrances may be made to St. Paul Armenian Church, 3767 N. First Street, Fresno, CA 93726; or donor's favorite charity.