When several of our older, long-time members pass away, we become even more aware of our own mortality. Holes are left in our congregation which are difficult to fill. This was the case with Ethel Karstens, whose death was noted last month.

On February 13 Erma Boatman, wife of Darvil, died quite suddenly at their home in Hemet. Although her health had not been good, she had been active in her regular activities even on that day, and we will miss her cheery smiles and loving attitude.

Word has also been received of the death last July 24 of Armando Pinto, who joined our congregation when the Orange County church disbanded in the early '80s. As long as his vision was good, he attended here regularly and we appreciated his loving ways and thoughtful contributions. In recent years, he could not attend as often as he wished, but we welcomed him warmly when he did come. Born in Portugal in 1905, his ashes were taken to New Jersey where his wife had been buried.