Helen Salter Nies

Helen Nies, former president Redlands Symphony president from 2003 to 2005, died on Nov. 26, 2020, at Plymouth Village. She was 86.
Born in Santa Ana on March 16, 1934, to Edmund and Marjorie Salter, she grew up in Fullerton, where she graduated from high school. She then attended Occidental College, graduating in 1956, earning an elementary school teaching credential. Her first teaching assignment was in Redwood City.
She married Boyd Nies, a medical student at Stanford, in July 1957. After their marriage, she taught in San Francisco for a year and for two years in Los Angeles. The Nies moved to Redlands in 1965. Nies primary focus was always her family. She was active in the PTA and was Mariposa Elementary president until 1989. She also served as Redlands Highs PTA vice president. She served at the Redlands First United Methodist Church as a Sunday School teacher and a co-lay leader in 2005 to 2007.
Helen Nies, former president Redlands Symphony president from 2003 to 2005, died on Nov. 26, 2020, at Plymouth Village. She was 86.
When her children were older, she devoted herself to community service. She served as a board member for the Redlands Family Service Association, United Way and the Plymouth Village Advisory Board. Nies spent 13 years on the Redlands Symphony board and was president for two years. She was honored in 2007 by the University of Redlands Town and Gown as an outstanding woman for her volunteerism.
Nies loved children, plants, birds and dogs. She loved the beach, ocean and enjoyed traveling. After her husband retired, they saw many parts of the world.
She is survived by her husband; her children Nancy Bravante, Linda Schmitz and Boyd Nies Jr.; her grandchildren William, Mario and Matthew Bravante, Karie and Nick Schmitz and Parker Nies; and her sister Evelyn Huebner.
The family is planning services at the Redlands First United Methodist Church, which will be streamed and available for viewing on YouTube. Burial will be at Fairhaven Memorial Park in Santa Ana.
The family suggests memorials and donations to the Redlands First United Methodist Church, 1 E. Olive Ave., Redlands, CA 92373

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