Marie Menken, born Marie Menkevicius on May 25, 1909, in New York City, was the daughter of Catholic Lithuanian immigrants who had relocated to the United States, seeking a better life. This significant move would shape the destiny of Marie and her siblings, including her brother and sister, Adele, who would later modify their surname to Menken.
Growing up in Brooklyn, Marie faced the challenges of financial struggles within her household, a reality that would have a lasting impact on her life. Despite these difficulties, she would go on to build a life of her own, meeting her future husband Willard Maas in 1937.
The couple exchanged vows that year and relocated to a Brooklyn penthouse situated at 62 Montague Street, which would serve as their primary residence until their eventual passings. This Brooklyn address would become a symbol of their life together, a testament to the love and commitment they shared.
Marie Menken's life came to a close on December 29, 1970, a loss that would be felt deeply by those who knew her. Just four days later, on January 2, 1971, Willard Maas would also meet his demise, leaving behind a legacy that would be forever intertwined with Marie's own.
