Marie Nassif

MARIE NASSIF

Des Moines

Marie Sarraf Nassif, 88, of Des Moines, formerly of Cedar Rapids, passed away Aug. 23, 2015, with her

children at her side. She was laid to rest at Glen-dale Cemetery next to her beloved husband, John George Nassif, who preceded her in death June 24, 1966.

Marie was born in Syria on Feb. 18, 1927, to Salim and Toufica (Haddad) Sarraf. She received her M.A. from the University of Iowa and B.A. from Coe College in French. Her baccalaureate in math/science was from the College Orthodox des Jeunes Filles.

Marie was a teacher by profession and by nature. She taught math, French and Arabic, and also worked as a translator. She won awards throughout her life: for teaching, needlepoint, cooking and bridge, and belonged to numerous organizations, including PEO.

An incomparable hostess, she entertained elegantly, gracious and welcoming to all. Her loyalty to and love for her numerous friends and family are legendary.

Marie is survived by her children, Cyrene (Dr. Nader) Ajluni and Sheryl (Dr. Stuart) Lehr, both of Des Moines, and Dr. John (Marina) Nassif, Fort Myers, Fla.; and grandchildren, Kent (Stacey) and Peter Lehr, Christopher and Jennifer Ajluni and Johnny and Alex Nassif. Also surviving are her sister-in-law, Helen G. Nassif, Rockville, Md.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Her parents and siblings preceded her in death: Emil Sarraf, Brazil; John (Janet) Sarraf, Chicago; and Sirry Sarraf, Samir (Samera) Sarraf and Lola (George) Muchaluat, Syria.

The family extends sincere thanks to the staff at Wesley Acres – Des Moines, for providing love and compassionate care to our mother during her final year.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Luke's John G. Nassif Heart Center, Cedar Rapids; St. George Orthodox Church, Cedar Rapids; or Wesley Acres – Des Moines Employee Fund.