On June 12, 2008, Lucy Yarick passed away, leaving the gift of a lifetime of dedication to gardening and to California's native plants in particular.

Lucy and her husband, Burnell, had a gardening show on KIEV radio station every Sunday morning. Lucy was very active in Glendale civic affairs and, even after a long night at the symphony or theater, she and Burnell would dutifully make it to the studio for their broadcast and calls from listeners.

Lucy's husband, Burnell, was the first president of the Theodore Payne Foundation when it was formed in 1960. Lucy and Burnell were keystones in the founding of the Foundation and its nursery, and instrumental in making sure that the dedication and passion of Theodore Payne would be continued for generations to come. Due to Lucy and Burnell's commitment to the Foundation, Theodore Payne's hope that Californians would reclaim the beauty of their natural inheritance did not founder.

Even after Burnell's passing, Lucy maintained an active interest in the Foundation's progress and programs. She often called with suggestions and recommendations for furthering the appreciation of native plants in the community.

Would that all people could find a passion and positive love for something and pursue it for the benefit of others. Lucy Yarick did just that. A service to honor her memory will be held on Friday, June 20, at noon at the Glendale Presbyterian Church, 125 South Louise Street, Glendale, California 91205.