Ellen Tauscher: “the Tenth Congressional District of California was shocked and saddened last week by the untimely death of one of its…”

“the Tenth Congressional District of California was shocked and saddened last week by the untimely death of one of its true community leaders, Margaret Lesher-Thorstenson. Some might say a shining light was dimmed in Contra Costa County with the passing of Margaret Lesher. I say the light will continue to burn bright through her many gifts of generosity, kindness, and friendship. As individuals and as a community, we are richer for having had Margaret Lesher in our lives. Mrs. Lesher was an extraordinary woman who had many facets to her life: A mother, wife, businesswoman, philanthropist, and friend. In each role she exemplified a spirit of voluntarism and generosity that all of us constantly strive to achieve. In every cause or endeavor upon which she embarked, she would give 110 percent of herself. Throughout all of her community service, Margaret Lesher realized that her family and friends were her foundation. I had the occasion to meet Margaret Lesher through the Battered Women's Alternative of Contra Costa County, a Contra Costa organization dedicated to aiding and assisting women in need. In 1990 she established the Margaret Lesher Transitional Housing and Employment Center. She not only gave financially to the program, but she also spent countless hours meeting and talking to the women who went through the center. Mrs. Lesher was always there to listen and support anyone who needed her help.”