Lou and Del Greenfield

Lou and Del Greenfield's days were filled with action. Together they worked hard to support what they believed in, including political causes, the peace movement — and Oregon Public Broadcasting. The Greenfields loved OPB and its commitment to independent news so much so they left a significant gift to the station in their estate.

"My parents felt that OPB offered the only news that was meaningful," said the Greenfield's son Mark. "My dad and mom felt strongly about education and quality in all things, which is what OPB brings to the community each day."

Among their favorite programs were "NOW With Bill Moyers," "Frontline," "Great Performances" and "A Prairie Home Companion."

The Greenfields grew up on the East Coast during the depression. Del and Lou's parents were all Ukrainian Jewish immigrants and Del's mother was a sweatshop organizer. The couple met and married in Philadelphia, Pa., where Lou was a pharmacist and Del a school secretary. They moved to New Jersey where they bought the Erlton Pharmacy where they both worked. Del also volunteered and served as director for the South Jersey Peace Center. Eventually, they sold the pharmacy and, in 1973, moved to Oregon to be near their grown children.

Oregon proved the perfect place for Lou and Del to immerse themselves in the community. Lou worked in real estate and in sales for Home Box Office. And in addition to spending time with family, they labored tirelessly on behalf of many political and social organizations. Over the years, Del traveled to Hungary, Russia and Mexico in support of the Physicians for Social Responsibility. For over a decade, she served as executive director of the Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility, creating a legacy of events such as the annual Waterfront Park Hiroshima Day to honor the victims of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

"My mom had very strong feelings about what it means to be a citizen, and she instilled that in her three children, being informed, being a visible member of the community and standing up for what you believe in," said Bonnie Regan, her daughter.

The Greenfield's extraordinary commitment to family and community has enriched many lives. Their wonderful estate gift to OPB is truly a gift to us all and will serve to help OPB educate, inform and engage future generations for years to come.