It is with great sadness that we report the loss of Kathie Preston. Kathie and her husband John were co-presidents of WRWA in 1983 with Kathie taking the helm solo in 1984. From childhood, she spent every summer in Westport at the Point where she sailed the river and reveled in the natural world. The river especially was her passion. When Kathy and John became year-round residents, they got involved with projects to protect the environment by joining and supporting WRWA’s mission.
Under Kathie’s leadership WRWA received a $20,000 grant to develop the Greenway Plan that inventoried corridors of open space along the river for future protection. She was instrumental in writing the grant that enabled the Alliance to hire its first Executive Director. With board support she spearheaded the first River Day. The numerous issues she tackled were not that different from today: wetland protection, hazardous waste disposal, septic system improvements, stormwater runoff, and dune restoration.
After her leadership at WRWA, Kathie served on the Westport Planning Board for several years. Her life was filled with enthusiasm and commitment to her family, friends, and community. She will be missed.
The Preston
family has designated WRWA as one of the recipients for memorial gifts
. Donations can be made in Kathie's memory
on-line
, or sent to WRWA - PO Box 3427 - Westport, MA 02790.
