Obituary of Marla Beth Edelstein

Marla Beth Edelstein passed away on Thursday, January 30, 2020 after a courageous battle with cancer. She was in the presence of her loving family. Marla is survived by her devoted husband of 47 years, Dr. Mitchell Edelstein, her two daughters, Elana (Henrik) Helgesen and Jessica (Marc) Riesgo, and her grandson, Elias Riesgo. Additionally, she is survived by her twin sister, Elisa (Toby) Simon, Joel & Ann Edelstein, Lynne (Edelstein) & Mark Gomez, seven nieces and nephews, numerous wonderful friends, and her beloved poodle, Maddy. Marla was born in Philadelphia on March 28, 1949 to Shirley and Jules Mechanic. She graduated from Northeast High School and Temple University where she received her Bachelor of Science and Master's degrees in education and linguistics. On August 6, 1972, she married Mitchell, an aspiring physician and her college sweetheart. On July 26, 1975 and June 2, 1978, respectively, she welcomed her two beautiful daughters, who were the most important part of her life. The family relocated to Tucson, Arizona in 1985. Marla was a devoted mother and worked as both a teacher and an office manager. She also ran the local chapter of the NFIC, now the CCFA (Crohn's & Colitis Foundation) in the late 80s to early 90s. Marla was an avid reader who enjoyed spending time with family and friends, going to the theatre, gardening and playing mah jong. An enthusiastic learner, Marla was always pursuing new skills from mosaic tiling to new computer applications to any other subject that caught her interest. She was also a huge animal lover with a soft spot for poodles. Marla will be deeply missed by her friends, family and all who knew her. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation and American Cancer Society in Marla's honor. A funeral service is scheduled for 2 pm at Adair Funeral Home Avalon Chapel, Tucson, Arizona.