Established in 1947, the Toluca Lake Garden Club (TLGC) is remarkable not only for being one of the community’s most venerable organizations, but also for the longevity of its individual members. While the group’s primary goal is to beautify the neighborhood, its effect goes far beyond aesthetics. President Robyn Allyn notes that by cultivating fresh fruits and vegetables, outdoor activity, a connection with nature, civic purpose and strong social bonds, the TLGC exemplifies many of the healthy qualities that researchers have identified in the world’s happiest and longest-lived populations. The group even managed to stay active and closely connected during the height of the pandemic thanks to then-president Leslie Gores, who organized monthly Zoom meetings and helped older members get comfortable with using the technology.
In honor of the club’s theme for the year, “Bloom With Zest,” Allyn shares recollections of some of the past and present members whose long lives have enriched, and been enriched by, this community.
Joan Scheid lived to just one day shy of her 98th birthday. With her sparkly blue eyes and quick wit, she often recited her favorite Dorothy Parker poem: “If I don’t drive around the park, I’m pretty sure to make my mark. If I’m in bed each night by ten, I may get back my looks again. If I abstain from fun and such, I’ll probably amount to much. But I shall stay the way I am, because I do not give a damn.”
Leosia Shirley Wentink, a charter member since the club’s founding, celebrated her 100th birthday with fellow members. A proud member of the Camellia Society, she grew more than 100 varieties of camellias on her property — a breathtaking tribute to her love of gardening.
The club’s “inspiration gal,” Judy Holliday began each meeting with thoughtful, loving words about life and friendship. When Joan Scheid passed away, Judy honored her by giving each member a cobalt blue bead — a reminder to think of Joan whenever they felt it at the bottom of their purses.
Marion O’Mara lived to 103 and embodied joy and zest for life. She loved people, laughter and champagne, and could always be counted on to lend a hand at fundraisers and community events.
Rose Chimo lived to 100 and was a pillar of both the TLGC and the wider community, a warm, gracious presence at every meeting.
A true gardener at heart, Nan Christian’s depth of knowledge and gentle wisdom enriched every discussion and helped guide members with plant-related questions.
Elegant and kind, Rita Gilbert was a member for 25 years before moving from her beautiful Toluca Lake home — once owned by actor Dorothy Lamour — to be closer to family.
Now in her 80s, Natalie Bloxham recently retired after 50 years of membership. Along with Rose Chimo, she holds the distinction of serving the club for more than half a century — a rare and remarkable legacy.
Tippi Pyle, fondly known as the club’s “Texas flower,” was married to actor Denver Pyle and still resides in their longtime Toluca Lake home. On her Texas ranch, she grows corn, wheat, sunflowers and cotton — living proof that beauty and hard work often grow hand in hand.
A powerhouse leader, Shirley Duenckel served as TLGC’s president for a record 12 years, expanding membership during a time of decline and strengthening the club’s community presence. She was also president of the Chamber of Commerce. “Personally, I owe Shirley so much,” Allyn shares. “When I first joined, I was shy and uncertain, but she encouraged me to get involved and take on leadership roles. Her mentorship helped shape the leader I am today.”
Shirley’s husband, Richard Duenckel, served as honorary treasurer for 10 years. Soft-spoken and deeply respected, he was beloved by all. At his funeral, Shirley asked Garden Club members to stand up, and the audience gasped at how many filled the room — a testament to the love and admiration he inspired.
This year, the TLGC presented Audrey Goddard with honorary membership, recognizing her two decades of service since joining in 2004. A trailblazer in the film industry at a time when few women held leadership positions, she remains a creative, intelligent and strong presence within the club.
Allyn concludes that while the high number of octogenarian, nonagenarian and centenarian members over the years might seem extraordinary, their longevity is a natural reflection of the TLGC’s mission and spirit. “Our Garden Club truly is one of a kind — a group bound by friendship, care for one another and a shared love of community and gardening. The connections we’ve built are lifelong.”