Albert T. Darien (nee Derdiarian)

Albert Thomas Darien (nee Derdiarian) died on Feb. 16, 2020, in Boynton Beach, Fla., at the age of 93.

Al was born on Dec. 25, 1926, in the Bronx, N.Y., the child of Armenian Genocide survivors who began a new life in the United States. Upon graduation of high school, Al served in the U.S. Army during WWII. He returned home to finish his schooling in interior design at Parsons School of Design, and successfully owned and operated for over 30 years an interior design firm specializing in custom upholstery and draperies. He and his wife of over 71 years, Rose Darien, resided in Eastchester, N.Y., where they raised two children, Donald and Lori. Al was actively involved in the development and growth of St. Gregory the Enlightener Armenian Church in White Plains, N.Y. He serviced as a church council member as well as the chair of many picnics. Upon his retirement, he and Rose moved to Florida to enjoy the warm climate and ocean breeze.

Al was an avid gardener, bird watcher and woodworker, and spent much of his spare time growing orchids, tending to spice gardens and creating carvings of colorful birds of all varieties. He was a member of American Legion Post 164 in Boynton Beach.

Al is survived by his wife, Rose Darien; his son, Donald Darien and his wife, Christine; daughter Lori Toppi and her husband, Vincent; five grandchildren - Kristie Arslan and husband, Rich; Bree Darien; Carly Darien; Nicole Fennell and her husband, Kevin; and Scott Toppi. As well as three great-grandchildren, Sophia and Luke Arslan and Julianna Fennell.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him.