“She was--and will always be--a ‘legend’ of Lakewood and one of my personal heroes. She was for me--as she was for so many in lives in Lakewood--a guide, a mentor, a leader, and a shining example,” said Lakewood Mayor Steve Croft.

Rynerson died of a stroke on Tuesday April 15, 2008. She was 87.

Lakewood residents are emphatically positive about their city’s capacity to be a good place to raise a family, enjoy recreation programs, shop, and work. More than four-fifths of residents in a recent community survey graded their city B+ for preventing neighborhood blight (81%), keeping city streets in repair (83%), providing effective public safety (87%), preserving the pleasant appearance of Lakewood neighborhoods (88%), and providing recreational opportunities (89%).

Their high level of satisfaction with city programs and services may stem from another significant indicator: Lakewood residents truly believe in their community. Nearly nine out of ten residents grade Lakewood B+ (or better) for preserving the community’s positive qualities (83%), sustaining their sense of community over the years (86%), and providing a good place to raise a family (88%).