To our many friends,

I am very sad to report that Rene has died. Since I have not been able to reach many of you, this will serve as a summary of Rene's passing for those of you who would like to know.

Tuesday night, Feb. 18th, she was in the process of taking her usual evening pills when she simply collapsed and died in my arms.

The paramedics, and later the hospital, did everything possible, but there was never any hope.

Of course, I am devastated, but there is a positive side to this tragedy. Her passing could not have been more sudden or pain-free - and we were together at the time. I knew she was in trouble because for the prior two days she was unable to finish her sentences - apparently a minor stroke. We had an appointment to see her doctor Wed. a.m., but that was never to be. While she could not express herself verbally, she did communicate. She was incredibly at peace and her looks and gestures spoke affection well beyond her usual. I fully believe she knew what was coming and was saying goodbye to me.

It is as though she said to God: "Listen up Lord, it's time, and here's how it's going to happen!" I have no doubts that she left on her own terms.

The suddenness and simplicity of her passing was the finest and most loving gift she ever gave me.

She left at the top of her game - she was deeply involved in two major battles at the same time: She was fighting to save our local hospital from being shut down by Tenet Healthcare, and she was struggling to re-organize our neighborhood group from a dictatorship to a rule-following, inclusive democracy. Although she did not see it, she knew that both battles would likely be won. (The latter actually was actually successful a week later!)

She never reached the point in life where she had nothing to do or couldn't contribute. She and her wheelchair were everywhere.

The outpouring of grief, sympathy and support is overwhelming. Of course, she has left a gaping hole in my heart, but I believe the collective pain of her friends and neighbors exceeds mine. She was widely and truly loved in ways and to an extent that I have never witnessed anywhere else.

We buried her Sunday, the 23rd, in the nearby cemetery she had expressed her desires for (within sight of Al Jolson's grave). Two weeks later we will have a Celebration of her life.

She held all of you in her heart and thoughts. She knew her life was richer for knowing you.

I am sorry to be the bearing of such sad tidings, but what must be, happened in the best possible way. The grief is not for her, but for us who must now manage without her unending care, love and wisdom.

Through my sadness, I rejoice in the nearly four decades I was privileged to have this exceptional woman by my side. I have been blessed beyond words.

Thanks to all of you who have shared my pain and helped me to bear it.

Love (Rene's and mine),

Jim