In Memoriam
Tribute to Tom Kieley, Jr.
We would like to pay special tribute to one of our most ardent supporters, F. Thomas Kieley, Jr., whom we lost on May 4, 2009. He selflessly provided constant support to his wife Elizabeth (Betty) Kieley's avocation, the Palm Springs Historical Society. He performed all types of chores that helped make possible its misson to preserve the history of Palm Springs.
Tom headed to Palm Springs with Earl Lykken, nephew of Carl and Edith Lykken, who owned the local general store. He fell in love with and married Elizabeth Ann Coffman, grand-daughter of Nellie Coffman. He was dedicated to serving his community and country and was involved with the Palm Springs Volunteer Fire Deparment, the Lions Club, the Owen Coffman Post of the American Legion Hall, Boy's Club of America and many other community organizations. He will be sadly missed.
We Say Goodbye to a Great Friend - Frank Bogert
Frank Bogert was an integral part of the Palm Springs Historical Society since its inception in 1955. In its early days, Frank donated hundreds of photographs to the Society that were taken by himself and other photographers, providing the foundation of our now over 10,000 photo archive. He started taking photographs upon his arrival in 1927, and continued through the decades, as either publicist or manager for such famed, star-studded resorts as El Mirador Hotel, the Racquet Club and the Palm Springs Tennis Club. Often he was the subject, shaking hands with presidents at the Palm Springs Airport or breaking ground for various developments. He continued to donate photographs and other historical artifacts to the Historical Society throughout his long life.
Frank was made an honorary Life Member of the Historical Society in 1972, served on its board of directors for many years, and remained a valued Board Member Emeritus and Advisory Council Member until his death. We called Frank regularly to verify historic facts, as he had an incredibly sharp memory and spoke from a rich treasury of personal experience. Frank was always generous with his time and unwavering in his support through personal appearance at the Society's events. He could be counted on to come dressed to the nines in classy western or Mexican regalia, according to the theme or occasion.
We'll never forget his entertainingly candid remarks at our Fiftieth Anniversary, when he appeared with many of the past mayors. Frank would never say no to a cause in which he believed. The Historical Society is grateful to him for his belief in us, his immeasurable support, and to his family for sharing him with us.