Raisa Martirosyan (Arustamyants) was born on March 22, 1938, in the city of Pyatigorsk, Russia, to Danil & Sofiya. Raisa was the youngest of 5 children: Asya, Fenya, Nikolay, and Nina.
As a young woman, Raisa moved to Baku to pursue a degree in economics. During her time at university, she met her future husband Oleg Martirosyan. The two married in 1963, and were blessed with two wonderful children, Liana and Sogomon (Simon), and lived many happy years together. They settled in the beautiful city on the Caspian Sea to raise their family.
In 1989, the Martirosyan family was forced to leave their home during the nationalist war. The family moved to the safety of their family in Pyatigorsk. In 1992 Martirosyans left their homeland and relatives and moved to the United States. They settled in Fargo, ND where they spent 13 winters before moving to Minneapolis. Raisa had a successful career at Dayton’s store in Fargo where she was loved by her colleagues and has received many accolades for her work. Raisa quickly made connections and established friendships in the United States. However, she always had part of her attached to her hometown. Over the years she took many trips back to Russia with her children and granddaughter. She treasured every moment she was able to spend with her family. She was instrumental in arranging the move of her niece Marina and her family to the United States in 2007 and was so glad to have more family here.
Raisa was a magnificent and strong woman. No matter what obstacle came before her she never gave up. Her positive outlook and fortitude motivated her family and friends throughout the years. She was generous, compassionate and exceptionally kind. Raisa was a fascinating conversationalist and captivated anyone she encountered with her outstanding storytelling. She loved life and touched many hearts throughout her lifetime. Raisa’s family here and back home meant everything to her, and her love will forever remain with them. Her legacy will live on through her children, Liana (Vital) Brouillard and Sogomon Martirosyan; granddaughter, Eva Brouillard; and all her loving relatives and friends. Raisa was greeted in Heaven by her husband, Alik, parents, Danil & Sofiya, siblings, Asya, Fenya, Nikolay, and Nina.
