Maria Paris Leva's Obituary
Maria Paris Leva, 94, of Kihei, Maui, passed away on January 8, 2021. She was born on November 18, 1926 in Orange, New Jersey to Daniel and Petronella (Nellie) Paris. She had a happy childhood with her close-knit family, including her Grandparents and many cousins who lived close by. After High School, she went to work as an Executive Secretary for Monroe Calculating Company in New Jersey and later at Hughes Aircraft Company in Playa del Rey, California. She was very independent, chic and stylish. Before she married her first husband, she traveled all over the world by herself and with girlfriends. She loved going to the big City, New York and attending the Theatre. Maria was an accomplished Artist specializing in Flemish Painting, a pro at calligraphy and a gifted photographer. She loved to entertain and did it beautifully. She was an avid and proficient Mac and Apple user from the start and was constantly upgrading to the latest computer and software. She taught computer classes and was a wiz at making custom cards for her loved ones. She married Arthur Leva in 1999 in Palm Desert, California. She produced amazing DVD’s of all her and Arthur’s travels and adventures complete with special effects and soundtracks.
Maria was an avid golfer and tennis player and won many trophies. She was strong and athletic and still in remarkable physical shape at 94.
Maria left this earth after a long and happy life with her devoted husband, Arthur, by her side.
Although she had no children of her own, she adored and was adored by her extended family by marriage. She always said “You don’t have to give birth to love a child”.
Maria was proceeded in death by her parents, her sister Helen, and her brother Daniel (Nancy).
She is survived by her brother Austin and many nephews and nieces. She was especially close to her niece Rosalie Gamba. She is also survived by her four Stepchildren and their families.
What’s your fondest memory of Maria?
What’s a lesson you learned from Maria?
Share a story where Maria's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Maria you’ll never forget.
How did Maria make you smile?