Editor's Note: Remembering ASHI's First Lady

In November, we received the sad news of the death of Elizabeth (Betty) Passaro, the wife of ASHI Founder Ron Passaro. Reading about her, I learned she was a giving woman with many talents. Nevertheless, because I met her at ASHI’s 25th anniversary celebration in Las Vegas, Nev., I can picture her only one way — at Ron’s side.

I’m guessing others will remember Betty and Ron Passaro as a couple. Although they eventually celebrated their Golden Anniversary, plus two more years, at the conference it seemed to me it was more than time that made them a true couple. When I had the opportunity to meet them, I had a feeling I was meeting Ron’s strongest supporter.

I remember that meeting with pleasure. When I was new to the staff, Ron had graciously schooled this home inspection greenhorn in what I needed to know to publish the magazine and more. I learned a lot about the history of ASHI from him and several charter members during ASHI’s Silver Anniversary celebration, and I’m glad I had the opportunity to meet ASHI’s first lady.

We send condolences to Ron and his family. If you wish to make a donation in her memory, the family suggested either The Guthy Jackson Charitable Foundation for neuromelyits optica or Susan G. Komen for the Cure for breast cancer research.