Perle Abrahamson

April 30th, 2025

Dear Maris,
Thank you for letting me know about the passing of your mom. What a fascinating and full life she led. And you were a wonderful and devoted daughter. We all had such a great time at Perle’s 99th birthday party. So glad she enjoyed “Shirley’s purse” so much. May she rest in peace.

Love,
Shirley

~Shirley Serey
~Friend, Fountain Hills, Arizona

April 27th, 2025

Our heartfelt love and prayers to you, Maris, in the loss of your precious mom, Perle. You cared for her so well and for so long, there will be an empty place in your heart always. May God comfort you. We loved her also and will never forget her. She was a friend we will treasure forever.

~Sue Andringa
~Neighbor and Friend, Scottsdale, AZ

April 26th, 2025

Dear Maris,
We were so touched by your eulogy. Over these years I feel we know your Mom from you and Bobs many funny, sweet, interesting stories…and so wish we had the opportunity to meet her. Your beautiful words paint a picture that makes us see her in such a glorious way.
You both were so fortunate to have each other and I know you could not have been a better daughter!
Nothing will ease the pain of losing her, but thinking of all the joy in your Moms life is the best gift ever.
We Love you, Jill and Rich

~Jill Gordon / Richard Gordon
~Friend, Miami,Fla

April 26th, 2025

My Dear Friend,
I’m so very sorry for the loss of your beautiful mom. You and Perle had a very unique relationship. Not many moms and daughters are as close as you two were. What a blessing for you both.
From everything I’ve heard over the years your mom was an inspiration to so many and you were a loving, caring and devoted daughter to her and Irving. As you grieve, please take your time and be patient with yourself.
Sometimes your heart needs more time to accept what your mind already knows.
I love you my friend,
Debbie Reif

~Debbie Reif
~Friend, Skokie, Illinois

April 26th, 2025

Dear Maris,
Your mom was a precious gift to Bob and to me. I referred to her as a “pearl of great price” , a priceless treasure, which she truly was. Her quest for knowledge and understanding knew no bounds ! She wanted to know more about the Bible and enjoyed coming to Bible Fellowship. We had many wonderful conversations. Her talents were many and her heart so loving. We miss her and are richer for having known her . We will never forget our precious Perle! With love to you for the beautiful and loving daughter you have always been to her! XOXO

~Sue Andringa
~Friend, Scottsdale, AZ

April 24th, 2025

I consider myself a new friend. I did not have the pleasure of meeting your mother. However, I have heard a lot about her, and she sounds like an amazing woman. I regret not knowing her.
But I know how caring and loving you were to her. You were very lucky to have such a special relationship.
I have no words of comfort. I don’t think there are any, but I’m sending you warm hugs and love.

~Toby Messrie
~friend, Scottsdale, AZ

April 24th, 2025

Perle was special and she had a wonderful way of making me feel special. I admired her and you, Maris. You are so wonderful to your Mom. Grief is sincere love with no place to go. Your friend’s and family are always here for you. One day you will tell tales of the funny and great things your mom did for you and all she knew. We will be ready and eager to hear your memories. Hugs and love.

~Catherine
~Friend, Scottsdale

April 23rd, 2025

Dear Maris,

I was saddened to learn of your mother’s passing. I cherish the moments I got to spend with her. She gave so much to others, and you and Irving gave so much to her. The love you shared with each other was a beautiful thing.

Perle celebrating her 101st birthday will be a wonderful memory for you. I know much of your mother’s enjoyment of her “Golden Years” was due to your devotion, love, and care.

As she was in hospice, I know you were probably preparing to lose her, but still, that final good-bye can break one’s heart.

Your mom was a beautiful, passionate person. Just by hearing you talk about her many interests and talents, I could feel the love you had for each other. A wonderful thing.

I remember when we worked together at Disney preschool, your mom was always willing to offer her advice, using her experience as a therapist.

It will be a task to go through your mom and dad’s treasures they’ve gathered through the years. I was also surprised at how much the little things could evoke memories and emotions. Take time to work through those feelings. How could you forget those “field trips”we took (usually during a school holiday!) as you brought bags of glassware home for your mother’s dining room. What fun it was to shop for your Mom!

May Perle’s memory be eternal.

Kathy (and Tom)

~Kathy Chilis
~friend, chicago, illinois

April 22nd, 2025

While I did not have the pleasure of knowing Perle, my life has been blessed with her daughter Maris, and I am forever grateful to Perle for bringing such a beautiful person into the world! Maris you are in my thoughts and I’m sending you EXTRA love during this time of loss. No matter what, even though she has passed on, your mother is with you always ❤️

~Maria Kanelos
~Friend, Niles, IL

April 22nd, 2025

Dear Maris, Although I’ve only met your Mother once at her 99th Birthday celebration, I felt honored and blessed to meet her. We had a wonderful chat and she made me feel as though we have been friends for years. You are a wonderful daughter and Pearle was so proud of you. You spent everyday with her for several years. Pearle raised a gem of a daughter. I’ll always keep Pearle in my heart. Maris, I’m here for you, always Ann Guerra ♥️

~Ann Guerra
~Friend of Maris’s, Fountain Hills

April 21st, 2025

Maris, my heart is with you always. Know that I’m helping to hold you up from afar, and when you return I will be here to comfort you in person. You embody the very best parts of your mom and Irving, and they will both always be with you. Love you and am here for you.

~Kim Cooper
~Friend, Las Vegas, Nevada

April 21st, 2025

Dear Maris, I just wanted to tell you how sorry I am for your loss. Your mom made a big impression on so many people! I, of course, remember spending a holiday together and hearing her stories. She was so peppy and just a wonder to be around! But most of what I know about your mom is from the conversations that MY mom had with her regularly. I would often hear about their long phone calls where they discussed many interesting topics. My mom really enjoyed those calls and I know she will miss them. May her memory be a blessing. Love, Lori Kaplan

~Lori Kaplan
~friend, Arlington Heights, IL

April 21st, 2025

Photos

~RJC
~Friend, Illinois

April 21st, 2025

Perle’s 100th. birthday.

~Bob Cooney
~Friend, Skokie, Illinois

April 21st, 2025

Dear Maris,

I am very sorry about your Mother’s death. She was a great lady who lived a very accomplished, interesting and meaningful life. You are her greatest accomplishment. You kept your Mom alive and made her life better. You couldn’t have been a better daughter. Your Mom was very proud of you and loved you dearly.

One of my fondest memories of your Mom is when we went to see her at Maravilla. She was sitting at the table reading the N.Y. Times. She was up on the news and love to discuss politics. On that particular trip she even played the piano for me. I was very impressed by the books she was reading, her honesty and how precise she was in choosing her words when we would talk. I am going to miss her.

~Bob Cooney
~Friend, Skokie, Illinois

April 21st, 2025

Dear Maris,
My heart goes out to you as you mourn the passing of your mother.
It was because of your mom that we met more than 50 years ago..
In 1970 she ran the junior kindergarten program in Glencoe and made time to guide and encourage my friend Judy who was student teaching there. Through that connection we were introduced.
Over the years of knowing you and your family I always thought of Perle as the epitome of an intelligent, elegant and talented woman and a role model. She was always reaching out, learning and doing more and more.. I admired her so much when she decided to change careers and get an advanced degree at the University of Chicago. She was a marvelous hostess, an encouraging and caring presence and a talented pianist.
You took such good care of her and Irving and now they are at peace.

~Judy Harrison
~Long time friend, Deerfield, IL

April 21st, 2025

Dearest Maris,
Knowing you is a reflection of the love and strength your mother had. She clearly raised an incredible daughter – kind, thoughtful, and strong. I’ve seen the way you care for others and handle life with such grace – it’s a quiet testament to who she was. Please know I’m here for you, whatever you need. My heart is with you as you navigate this loss.

~Ania Szorc Bafia
~friend, Chicago, IL

April 21st, 2025

Sending love and hugs to you and Wendy. We are sorry for your loss.

We will cherish our memories of good times spent with Perle (and Irving). They were both very special to us and it is because of you that we were fortunate to know them. For this we will always be grateful.

Just breathe and take each step in turn. Our prayers are with you now.
🙏🏻 💕

~ Michael, Tammy, Hava & Maci

~Michael Herzog
~Maris’ brother, Phoenix, Arizona

April 21st, 2025

Perle and Irving moved into Maravilla Scottsdale just a month after I started working in the Business Office there. They were both so very kind, wonderful, and intelligent. I loved talking to both of them and hearing about their interesting lives. I am so happy that Perle hit that amazing milestone of 100 years. If anyone could do it, Perle was one that I would never doubt could! She kept herself in such amazing shape and had an equally amazing spirit and strength.

I was fortunate enough to also meet Maris, Perle and Irving’s daughter, who has become a friend. Long before I actually met Maris, her mother had told me all about her and clearly loved her so much, and was very proud of her. Maris paid back that love by taking such wonderful care of her mom when things changed with Perle’s health.

Maris, let me know if there is anything I can do to help you in any way. My daughter, Melissa is also here for you if we can offer any assistance.

And…..you are a lucky lady to have had Perle for your mom. And….she was fortunate to have you for a daughter.

Hugs and Prayers,

Christine Wright

~Christine Wright
~Friend, Scottsdale, AZ

April 20th, 2025

Dear Maris,
I’m so sad about losing a wonderful friend. Your mom has been a shining light in my life. Her personality, experiences, kindness and knowledge about almost everything has kept me on my toes and has challenged me about what it means to grow older and still be curious about people and their lives.
I looked forward to our lengthy conversations and am going to miss her tremendously! I’m so glad my family has been so privileged to know Perle and Irving. What a treat and how lucky we all have been!
Lots of love,
Judy Kaplan

~Judy Kaplan
~friend, Arlington Heights, IL

April 20th, 2025

Wish I could have met Perle earlier, as I so enjoyed your piano playing. She was such an inspiration to all who knew her. My condolences to you, Maris.

~Bonnie Hughes
~Friend, Scottsdale, AZ

April 20th, 2025

Dear Maris,
Perle was bright, talented, witty and
mischievous. She was loved by many. I am so grateful to be one of the many people who knew and loved her.

~Leslie Harris
~Friend, Scottsdale

April 20th, 2025

Perle’s life was a testament to excellence, leaving an enduring legacy that inspires us all. To me, she was larger than life, and I’m reminded of her whenever I see the framed quotation of Marshall Field’s, “Twelve Priceless Qualities of Success,” which she embodied in everything she did. Not only was Perle poised, gracious, intuitive, talented, passionate, devoted, and generous, she was also an extraordinary mother. Though deeply missed, her spirit lives on, especially in you, Maris whom she raised to reflect these beautiful traits. You are family to us and our children, and we share in your sorrow.

~Carolyn and Dennis Cooney

April 20th, 2025

Dear Maris
I’m so sad about losing a wonderful friend. Your Mom has been a shining light in my life. Her personality, experiences, kindness
and knowledge about almost everything has kept me on my toes and has challenged me about what it means to grow older
and still be curious about people and their lives. I looked forward to our lengthy conversations and am going to miss her
tremendously. I’m so glad my family has been so privileged to know Perle and Irving, What a treat and how lucky we all
have been!
Lots of love
Judy Kaplan

~Judy Kaplan
~friend, arlington hts

April 20th, 2025

Oh the memories go way back! Meeting your Mom on Bob O’Link in that very cool house. Perle was such an interesting mom – the cool house full of art and books and, of course, the piano.
I loved being there, even in the horrible blizzard when she had us all piled in because you had power! She always had such cool houses – on Beech, on Astor. She was unique and unbeknownst to her a role model for me. Oh teenagers, we never tell adults how cool we think they are.
And here we are. You have taken care of her as I would expect with that big kind heart of yours. She could only know how much you loved and cherished her to the end. But it’s not the end in your heart. She will always be there, in your heart. I remember well wondering when my own mom passed asking what do girls do without a mother. Well, we go on, differently but always with them in our hearts. You know, I hope, I will always be there for you my dear lifelong friend.
I love you, Cindy

~Cynthia Giarelli
~lifelong friend, Ft Sheridan, Illinois

April 20th, 2025

Meeting Pearl the first time in her Chicago apartment, I had the distinct pleasure of hearing her play the piano-so beautiful.
Seeing her again in Arizona, I realized what a wonderful mother she was to have raised the most talented, generous, caring daughter.
Maris, you were the BEST DAUGHTER; how wonderful for you to have no regrets when it comes to the care and love you demonstrated for both of your parents.

~Bonnie Roelle
~Friend, Chicago IL

April 20th, 2025

Our Deepest Sympathy Maris and family. Perle was an incredible woman. She filled every room with her inimitable presence. Perle had a keen ability to simplify the complex, breakdown your defenses, to decipher your feelings. She used a mixture of storytelling, music, philosophy, psychology, and wisdom to draw you in and open your heart. I feel so fortunate to have known Perle and she is someone I will never forget.

~Susan & Blake
~Friend, Scottsdale, AZ

April 19th, 2025

Dear Maris,
I hope you take comfort in the exceptional care you gave your beautiful, intelligent vibrant mother. Remember all the wonderful adventures you had together and all the laughter. Perle was a very special person and an inspiration to both John and me as was Irving. My prayers go out to you.
Jane Chapman
Neighbor and Friend

~Jane Chapman
~Neighbor and friend, Scottsdale AZ

April 19th, 2025

Ira & I were blessed to know Perle, who was so special.I was honored to be invited to her 99th& 100th birthday celebrations. She was so thrilled with all you did for her, Maris. Last year she lit the candles at our Seder.
Her intelligence,charm & elegance could never be surpassed. We have missed seeing here in the last few months. Maris, you couldn’t have been a more wonderful daughter!I know your happy memories will sustain you for many years to come. May her memories be a blessing.
Much love,
Arlene

~Arlene Fertik
~Friend, Scottsdale,AZ

April 19th, 2025

I remember going to hear Elie Wiesel give a lecture and going back with you to your parent’s house in Highland Park. There your Mom and Irving continued the discussion. Your Mom made thoughtful comments and asked interesting questions. It was a night to remember for me. I remember the lovely birthday party your Mom gave you in their Chicago condo. It was clever down to every detail. She made everyone feel welcome and important. I was glad to be by her side when we had to bury Irving. Another sad day. You were such a wonderful daughter and I know she equally adored you. Hope your wonderful memories help you get through this time. Some people are so good that they should live forever but not possible. Hold on to your memories.

~Ilene Ross
~Family Friend, Highland Park, IL

April 18th, 2025

Dear Maris,
We are deeply saddened about the loss of your mother. It was so wonderful to meet her and spend time together.
What an incredible life your mother led for her 100 years. She will be remembered for all the lives that she touched .She was a pianist, social worker, wife, sister and mom. Maris, your love and dedication to your mom are admirable. How blessed she was to have you as a daughter. May her memory always be for a blessing.

~Susan and Mike Portnoy
~Friend, Phoenix, AZ

April 18th, 2025

Maris, Frank and I send our sincerest condolences on the death of your mother. She was lucky to have such an attentive, loving daughter as you have been to her, no doubt extending the quality and length of her life these past few years. I only met her one time, just a few months ago, and was so impressed by her beauty and grace. May her memory always be for a blessing and memories of her provide healing and blessings for you.
Stephanie and Frank Jacobson

~Stephanie Jacobson
~, SCOTTSDALE

April 18th, 2025

I remember Perle from my earliest days in Chicago.
Perle and my mother, both pianists of considerable proficiency, had met in the 1960s as members of Musarts, a women’s arts group, and from there, a life-long friendship was born.
In later years, after resettling in Arizona, Perle and I talked by phone about politics, religion, the arts, and of course, my late mother.
Perle never lost her enquiring mind, a basic curiosity that kept her young, along with her sense of humor and unfailing kindness and consideration for others.
The last time I visited Perle and her husband Irving in Chicago, Perle played a Mozart sonatina on her piano, a work my mother also had in her keyboard repertoire. Perle’s sense of line, dynamics, tone~ all were the hallmarks of an experienced artist. I did not fully grasp at the time what a remarkable experience it was or how meaningful it would remain, as it has, in my memory.
Perle cultivated younger friendships in order to remain young, she told me years ago, a wise maxim also shared by my mother. After my mother’s death in 2020, Perle’s friendship meant even more to me, and on many different levels and for many personal reasons.
I consider myself fortunate to have known Perle and Irving, both remarkable human beings in whose orbit we all shone.

RIP, dear lady~

~Carl J Halperin
~Longtime family friend, Raleigh, NC

April 16th, 2025

Maris, I’m so sorry for your loss. When you and I visited Perle at her apartment, she was so warm, enthusiastic, and full of life. How lucky you were to have had such a close relationship with her and your dad. Your mom may not be visible anymore, but she will present with you always. Now you are available for more adventures, more joy and more love in your life. Hopefully, we can explore things together and see what we can come up with. Go buy a new fishing pole, put some bait on it, and throw it in the water. You’ll be surprised what that pole can bring you. Who knows, with your storytelling ability, a comedy club or Saturday Night Live may recruit you to be their newest comedy star. My kids, Allison and Brigette think you’re the greatest thing since sliced bread, and I look forward to getting together with you to laugh our heads off. You have always been strong and brave, so keep your head up high, and be ready to receive a big hug from me when we meet. Love and more love, Lynda

~Lynda O’Connor
~Great friend for about 60 years, Lake Forest

April 16th, 2025

Dear Maris, “Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. Because for those who love with heart and soul, there is no such thing as separation.” – Rumi With all our love at this sad time.

~Catherine Reich
~My dear friend, Springfield, Illinois

April 16th, 2025

Dear Maris,
I am so honored that I met you, your Mom and Irving many years ago. Your Mom was a very beautiful, smart, talented, cultured and elegant woman. I am so thankful that I got to spend some time with her last year. I really admired the way that you honored and cared for her so diligently and respectfully to the very end. You would most definitely be given the “Daughter of the Century”award. Your Mom knew all of this and I’m sure that she was very grateful for your unwavering dedication to both she and Irving, and for caring for them in such an unselfish and truly loving way.
May your Mom rest in perfect peace and continue to be by your side and in your heart, always and forever! With our deepest sympathy,
Love your friends,
Sue and Bob

~Susan Y Gerber
~Dear friend, Cherry Hill

April 16th, 2025

Dear Maris,
You were truly the most loving and caring daughter a parent could ever want. I loved hearing about your mother and father over the years through our conversations. I still have the beautiful cookie from Perle’s 100th Birthday. It sits on my desk at home.
Thank you for letting me share parts of your life with you.
Love,
Sharon

~Sharon Kobernik
~Friend, Glenview, IL

April 16th, 2025

Dear Maris,
The journey that you took with your mother was loving, meaningful, and so very brave.
You gave her joy and dignity
& encouraged her to do what made her happy and to keep moving forward.
You were the true diamond in pearl‘s collection. Of a treasured life.

~Jill Ferdinand
~Friend, Il.

April 16th, 2025

Maris, wishing you peace and comfort in your time of loss. Perle was a wonderful person and will be missed.
With heartfelt condolences,
Pat Jazo

~Patricia Jazo
~Friend, Scottsdale AZ

April 15th, 2025

Oh Maris I’m so sorry. I know how hard this is and you were so fortunate to have your mom for such a great long time. I’ve always been envious. She lived a remarkable life and had you there for her. What a mitzva. I think your mom knew how fortunate she was. You are in my soul as you navigate these days, weeks and years. Take care of yourself cuz your mother would want you to. Love and prayers and hugs to you my sweet friend. And love to Perle. May she be reunited with all your loved ones. ❤️❤️❤️

~Adrienne Battin
~Friends since high school., Boynton Beach, Fl

April 14th, 2025

Dear Maris,
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Your Mom was indeed a pearl, a gem! I was so honored to be included in her 99th & 100th birthday parties. I have never been so impressed with the dignity, intelligence & talent with anyone other than Pearle! What a special woman; and let me say, Maris….The Apple doesn’t fall far from the.tree!”
With Love,
Janet

~Janet Lottman
~Mari’s’ friend, Scottsdale, AZ

April 14th, 2025

🌞dear Maris! thank you for sending the link to Shalom Memorial……look forward to watching Perle’s service. (was able to save the video of Irving’s internment and viewed it a number of times before it was no longer available.) Perle was a Perfectly Elegant Really Loved Extraordinary friend. 💕
You have been such a blessing to both of your parents. We know you still have much ahead of you yet but are so happy you have Bob (💝) to give you strong support. We are back in Maravilla on the 30th and if it isn’t too late will offer help in any way. We pray for you & Bob and for Perle’s soul…sending our love!
♥️😘🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻😘

~The Weber’s
~friends, Scottsdale AZ

April 14th, 2025

Maris,
Thank you for thinking of me in this
difficult time, you are your mother’s daughter for sure. We will miss Perle and have missed Perle these last few months. She was a remarkable woman, so special and in her own way made me feel special too. She has a special place in my heart forever. I’m blessed to have known her.Love, Peg Defazio-Howe

~Mrs Margaret DeFazio-Howe
~Maravilla family, Scottsdale, AZ

April 13th, 2025

Maris …Perle was a lovely , warm woman of great intelligence and talent. Her many interests and talents made her a joy to be around. There were always interesting conversations , with a dose of humor for good measure. I feel fortunate to have know her and will miss her friendship..

Ann…a friend at Maravilla,

~Ann Bambergr
~Friend, Scottsdale, AZ

April 13th, 2025

Maris, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your mother Pearl.
The first time we met I knew you were a special person.. Our friendship began to blossom. We kept in touch by the lovely letters you wrote and through the phone. Once again I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your dear mother. 🙏

~Deborah and Dave
~Friend, Florida

April 12th, 2025

Deepest sympathy, Maris Your mother lived a very long life. Now she has earned her wings & will be lovingly hovering over you. Much sympathy to your sister, family & friends.

~Bonnie Deibel
~Friend. To Maris, Platteville, CO

April 12th, 2025

and He will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away. I’ll wait for my Dear Perle’s resurrection… here, on the Earth. That’s the most beautiful promise from my God…..

~Estera
~Caregiver, Arizona. Phoenix

April 12th, 2025

We had the pleasure of meeting Pearl, Irving and Maris in Savannah, Georgia. many years ago. We met while having breakfast and we’ve been friends ever since. Through Maris we’ve kept up with how Pearl and Irving have been doing. After Irving passed Maris continued on caring for her Mom. Pearl was a special lady. She will sadly be missed.

~Deborah & Dave Grant
~Friend, Delray Beach, Florida 33484

April 11th, 2025

Maris we had some wonderful times with Perle. I loved the Friday Shabbos you came to our house and our children asked her so many questions.
Hugs love and may you soon see RAINBOWS to warm your heart.

~Pinki
~Friend, Phoenix, AZ

April 11th, 2025

Dear Perle was a cherished part of my family. We met some 60years ago through music and we have been friends ever since. We shared so many life events and celebrations. There were so many lovely evenings at Perle’s home where she and Irving were the consummate hosts with music, exquisite food and enlightened conversation. Perle was so wise, compassionate. empathic, with a delightful sense of humor. She was my go-to friend through thick and thin. She was truly one-in-a-million and I am deeply saddened to realize that she is no longer with us here on Earth. She is sorely missed but will always live on in our hearts . REST IN PEACE dear friend!

~Helene Alter-Dyche
~long-time friend, Chicago, Illinois

April 10th, 2025

My dear lifelong friend, Maris ~

A bright and beautiful light went out at 5:20 a.m. on Saturday, April 5th … and we will all feel the warmth and the glow from that light for the rest of our lives. Perle was a very unique person in all respects. Everyone who knew her felt blessed by her presence, knowledge, wisdom, intelligence and her ability to make people feel respected, seen and heard.

She has left us with a lifetime of precious memories.

“Blessed are they who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”

Shine on, dear Perle; shine on …

Always with love,
Michele

~Michele Holiday
~friend, PHOENIX