RANCHO MURIETA, CA (MPG) - Rancho Murieta Association Director Renee Bechthold was fondly remembered for the joy she brought to the community following President Patrick O’Hern’s announcement of her resignation at the board’s Jan. 21 meeting.

O’Hern said he would miss her dearly. “She was a wonderful, wonderful director,” he said. “Her heart was completely around the recreation. She loves the people out here.”

Bechthold did not attend the meeting but later said that serving on the board had been an honor and a privilege. She particularly enjoyed her role as chair of the Recreation Committee. 

“However, I am now facing health concerns that require my full attention, so with a heavy heart, I have stepped down from this position,” she said. “I wish to thank everyone for their support during my tenure, especially my fellow board members.”

The board appointed Bechthold as a director in November 2022 to fill the vacancy left by Joanne Brandt’s resignation. She was elected a year later and served a total of two years.

Director Scott Adams said Bechtold dedicated significant time to recreation activities, including reviving the baseball trips. “She was at every one of these events,” he said.

Adams added that working with her on the board had been a privilege. “She was a great-hearted human being and ethical,” he said. “I can’t say enough things about Renee.”

O’Hern said he will never forget Bechthold’s demeanor when she requested funding for a recreational activity. She was quiet and easygoing when making the initial request, but when she received unanimous approval, she shouted, “Yes!” 

“It was hilarious and a lot of fun to watch her,” O’Hern said. “I wish her the best.”

General Manager Rod Hart described Bechthold as a dedicated and amazing person, who paid great attention to detail. “Many of these events, I don’t know that I have ever seen them run more smoothly,” he said.

Hart also noted that he considered the Recreation Committee, which Bechthold chaired, to be one of the most important committees within the homeowners association. “What Renee has done and continues to do is bring joy to the membership,” Hart said.

Bechtold moved to Rancho Murieta about 10 years ago and ran her insurance claims business from home. She quickly became involved in the Rancho Murieta Women’s Club, serving on the board for two years and frequently making phone calls for the group’s blood drives.

Bechthold was an active member of the Optimists Club of Rancho Murieta for seven years. She also served as club president last year when the Optimists disbanded in February due to dwindling membership.  

However, Bechtold ensured the club’s signature event, the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, continued. As chair of the Recreation Committee, she arranged for the association to take over hosting the beloved tradition, which had been cherished for 20 years.