Ellene Mertens, 85, of Hemet, died Thursday, Nov. 23, 2006 at Hemet Valley HealthCare Center from a combination of heart problems and Alzheimer’s disease.

She was born Jan. 9, 1921 in Savannah, Ga., and was an executive secretary, working nearly 10 years at Paramount Studios. She had lived in Los Angeles for 29 years.

Ms. Mertens was involved in drama and made many charitable contributions.

The Neptune Society is handling cremation arrangements.

She is survived by her very special friends, Sharon E. Petersen and Lisa and Sierra Gehm of Idyllwild.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718.