Lorene Meek

LORENE MEEK died August 9, at the age of 81. Lorene was well known in the Inland Empire through her many civic activities and h er long and successful career with First American Title Co. of San Bernardino. She was one of the original employees of First American and rose from bookkeeper to escrow officer to Secretary/Treasurer of the San Bernardino office. In 1989 she was honored as the first woman Vice President of the growing international company, now known as First American Corporation. Lorene was active, often serving as an officer or board member in many civic, business, and charitable organizations including The Arrowhead Al lied Arts and San Bernardino Valley Concert Associations, The California and San Bernardino Escrow Assocs., Zonta, and her mother's favorite organization, The Salvation Army. Lorene grew up in Plymouth County, Iowa. Following her marriage to L.L. Meek, they moved to California and in 1945 settled in Rialto where she raised her family after her husband's passing in 1946. After retirement in 1991 to Huntington Beach, Lorene enjoyed playing golf and spending time with family. Until Alzheimer's struck, she oft en visited her large extended family, including her sister Clara (and husband Delbert) Raby, and brother, Bob Eberhard, who still live in Plymouth County. She died peacefully at Gardenia Home Care in Fountain Valley. She is survived by her son Larry Meek and his wife Jeanette of San Luis Obispo, her daughter Margaret Sheldon and her husband Spencer of Huntington Beach, 4 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren. Other family members include Marilyn and Buster Burris of Reche Canyon, and numerous nieces and nephews. A celebration of the joys of Lorene's life is scheduled for September 11. Interested friends are encouraged to contact Ms. Jean Puckett for details (714) 847-4055 or, you can send an e-mail to LoreneMeek@socal.rr.com. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to the Alzheimer's Assoc. of Orange County. (714) 283-1111.