In Memorium

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IN MEMORIUM

It is with great sadness that we mark the recent death of Attorney Norma Karaian, at the age of 100. Norma was an active member and supporter of MAWL to the very end.

In recent years she was still attending the Holiday Toast and the annual banquet, dressed in her trademark red suits. This past spring she contributed to our MAWL history survey.

President of MAWL in 1954 while raising 3 children and running a practice, Norma was an inspiration. Her children confirmed that MAWL was an important part of Norma's and their lives as well. They vividly and fondly remember coming to MAWL activities, especially the annual banquet. She continued to convey to them the importance of MAWL's purpose. Daughter Lenore wrote: "Not only was Mother proud of being a woman lawyer, but was extremely proud of her association with MAWL. As well as we, her children are upon reflecting all of the friendships established while attending MAWL events with Mother."

Norma was born Yaghor Maksodian in 1904 in Providence, RI. Although proud of her Armenian heritage she changed her name to Norma to be more American.

She graduated from Boston University Law School in 1925 at age 20. Unable to take the bar exam until she turned 21, Norma took a job in a law office for $15 per week.

After successfully passing the bar exam, she began a long career as a title examiner and real estate attorney. Although she retired from practice in 1941 to raise her children, Norma went back to active practice in 1951 when her husband died. She supported and raised her children while contracting or working for several Boston law firms. Norma again retired in 1991 but continued to maintain a professional listing in the Lawyer's Diary.

Norma was a great friend to MAWL and many of its members. She will be missed by all.