Obituary of Narin Toker

Narin Toker passed away August 6, 2012 in Santa Cruz at the age of 83. Our beloved "YaYa" was born on January 1, 1929 in the Armenian village of Gesaria, Turkey. Narin married Kirkor in 1946 and moved to Istanbul to start a family. They raised 3 children and lived in Istanbul until relocating to Los Angeles in 1993. They moved to Santa Cruz in 2002 to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Narin was known to all as an extremely loving, joyful and compassionate soul. Always a great patron of education, Narin made certain that the disadvantaged children in her neighborhood could attend school and receive an education. Her giving spirit came from her Christian upbringing. A deeply religious woman, Narin was an active member and a constant volunteer at her church in Istanbul. Narin also felt great concern for the elderly. She was always available to assist with their needs. Whether it was dropping off some food, making an appointment or simply providing a kind ear, Narin made sure that they felt loved and cared for. Narin was her happiest when the house was full of family and friends. Her excitement could not be contained as she spent hours in the kitchen preparing a vast variety elaborate dishes. Nothing gave her greater joy then being seated at the table while her guests enjoyed the meals she had lovingly prepared. Narin is survived by her three children, Kaspar Toker (Maryam) of Istanbul, Nazar Toker (Maribeth) of Santa Cruz, Mari Brandt (Ryan) of Santa Cruz, her six loving grandchildren, Ben (Paula) Toker of Willow Glen, Aras(Ellen) Toker of San Francisco, Nicholas Brandt, Armand Brandt and Dominick Brandt and Leah. Narin was further blessed by becoming a great-grandmother to Max and Leo Toker. Narin was also survived by two sisters, Cicek Gozbek and Eva Boz and a brother Agop Sekeroglu. Services will be held on Monday, August 13, 2012 at Oakwood Memorial Chapel at 3301 Paul Sweet Road at 4pm.