Gail (Werner) Egenes passed away on Feb 27, 2017, at the age of 55, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Gail was inspired by her deep and committed faith, grateful to the dedicated doctors and staff at City of Hope, and supported by the love of her family and friends.

Gail was born on Nov. 13, 1961, and raised in Milwaukee, the youngest of three children, to Bob and Betty Werner. She graduated Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. Gail and her husband, Jay Egenes ‘82, moved to Riverside, Calif., in 1988 and raised their three daughters. Gail was active in Riverside Children's Theatre, National Charity League, Lutheran Cursillo of Southern California, Keep Riverside Clean & Beautiful, and the California Council of Land Trusts. She was the Sunday school director at Trinity Lutheran Church in Riverside and filled countless roles as the pastor's wife at Spirit of Hope in San Bernardino.

In 2002, Gail joined the Rivers & Lands Conservancy (formerly Riverside Land Conservancy) where her 15-year career was dedicated to conserving Southern California's open spaces. Gail was instrumental in the preservation of Mt. Rubidoux Peak and cross, a community landmark. Because of her work at RLC, Gail is a recipient of the 2017 61st Assembly District Woman of Distinction Award.

Gail leaves behind her husband, Pastor Jay Egenes ‘82; her three daughters Anna (and husband Ryan) Hightower, Kirsten Egenes, and Erica Egenes: her sister Karen Herrmann; her brother Jack (and wife Judy) Werner; and a loving family of nieces and nephews.

A memorial service was held March 11 at Spirit of Hope, 1820 E. Highland San Bernardino. Donations may be made to City of Hope Hospital, Spirit of Hope Church, or Rivers & Lands Conservancy.