Marlene H. Walther, 78
CLARKSBURG, Mass. — Marlene H. Walther, 78, of Clarksburg died Thursday, Sept. 13, 2012.
Born in Chicago, the only daughter of Alex Cohen and Rose Silverman Cohen Berlander, who were in the clothing business, she attended schools there.
Mrs. Walther had worked as a Realtor, but retired when her mobility became limited.
Mrs. Walther and her husband, George, moved to the Berkshires in midlife. They yearned to be surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes, privacy and peace offered in this gorgeous area, said family.
Her mother sang opera, was a painter, and was passionate about all the arts. Mrs. Walther also was drawn to visual and auditory beauty wherever she went. Every aspect of her appreciation of beauty was manifest in some new way, said family, whether it was her awe of the multiple colors on one autumn tree, her love of decor, her daily clothing ensemble, or of art and music.
Amongst the things she will be remembered for are her indomitable spirit, her enthusiasm, her faith, sharp mind, and vitality.
She loved to engage others in conversation by phone, play scrabble, do crossword puzzles, read inspirational books, and was fascinated by current events. Always an animal lover, the family dog, Troy was a passion.
At 78, having never used a computer, she acquired an iPad, said family, and leaped into the age of technology, surfing for news, crosswords, Googling, "Words with Friends" and music,even a little Eric Clapton.
Besides her husband, she leaves three daughters, Lynn Barr, Alanna (Robert) Gordon and Noelle (Joe) Viola, and her grandson, Ross Gordon.
FUNERAL NOTICE — The funeral for Mrs. Walther will be Wednesday, Sept. 19, at 1 p.m at Congregation Beth Israel, 53 Lois St. Burial will follow in Clarksburg Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to North Adams Regional Hospital, 71 Hospital Ave., North Adams, MA 01247 or Elder Services of Berkshire County, 66 Wendell Ave.,Pittsfield, MA 01201 or in care of Flynn & Dagnoli-Montagna Home for Funerals, Central Chapels, 74 Marshall St., North Adams, MA 01247.