Marin Independent Journal Wednesday, June 6, 2001 Section B, page 2 LOREENE HELEN FRENCH-VOLK [photograph] Died on the morning of May 26th, 2001 after a short but intense battle with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML). Renie, to her friends, was born in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada, on March 23, 1925. She, her mother, two brothers and four sisters emigrated to the U.S. early in 1930. The family first settled in the San Jose area and then moved to San Rafael in 1941. Her first real job was in the offices of the Marin Ship during World War II. After the war she married William H. French, a tank commander in the famous 11th Tank Battalion of Patton's Third Army. Due to her husband's cavalry experience and expertise in the equestrian field, they opened San Geronimo Valley Stables that led to the establishment of French's Hitching Post in the early 60s. Renie was known to be an icon and pioneer in the field of Western and English riding apparel and equipment. She was one of the founders of a national retail association representing the equestrian industry. French's Hitching Post, in downtown San Rafael, has become a landmark and focal point to many travelers over the years with it's horse or boot always present in the parking lot. Renie's saucy personality attracted a myriad of customers from all walks of life. From statesmen to ranchers to film and music personalities Renie made them all feel welcome and at home in her family store. Renie took up the challenge to protect and preserve existing equestrian trails in Marin County by becoming one of the early board members of the Marin Horse Council. She was a staunch supporter of the Mounted Sheriff's Posse of marin County and other related organizations. Renie was also known as the "lady in purple" due to her love affair with her purple 1930 Model A that was purchased from a famous San Francisco stripper. She was an active member of the Antique Automobile Club of America, Golden Gate Region and the Sonoma A's. As she knew that her life was short she wanted to express her thanks to her community, customers and friends in her own words. They are as follows: "I appreciate so much the love and support that you have given me and French's Hitching Post over these many years. Remember that horses and the outdoors bring great pleasure to all of our lives. Please continue to fight to keep our trails and open space available to all." Renie is preceded in death by her second husband, Louis A. Volk and her daughter, Vickie. She is survived by her daughter, Jeanie French-O'Neill, son-in-law, John Stephen O'Neill, granddaughter, Victoria Alexzandra O'Neill, sisters Vilma Gibbons, Frances Schoenwetter, Bernice Chamberlain, brothers Loren and William Rupnow and a large extended family. She will be missed by all. Memorial services will be held on Saturday, June 9th at 11 a.m. at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, San Rafael, Calif. Memorial contributions to: Leukemia Lymphoma Society of San Francisco (Research Only) or Marin Horse Council, c/o Marin Humane Society.