Marie Henrietta Remmers, 76, Idyllwild resident for 40 years, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, July 14, 2001.

She was born Dec. 28, 1924, in Ridgewood, N.J.

Ms. Remmers had had complications following open heart surgery in May, but had returned home the week before and was able to stay with a good friend.

She was delighted to be among the pines once again and chatted happily, making future plans amidst the cool evening breezes.

Ms. Remmers often was seen about town with good friend Frances Cripe who died last September. Both women had been lured to Idyllwild by Desert Sun School in the early 1960s.

Ms. Remmers was secretary to headmistresses and headmasters until she retired in 1985.

Looking back at her life one can see that she chose to be part of an environment that was a home away from home for both teachers and students. She reveled in the growth and success of those around her.

Due to her mother’s death when she was a young child, Ms. Remmers chose to work with many service organizations.

The YWCA, the George Junior Republic (school) and Desert Sun School may have been families for her, but more importantly, they were places where she could love others unconditionally.

As one former student said just last week, “Her smile could light up a whole room.”

Services with a scattering of ashes are being planned. Ms. Remmers had no survivors.