I read Don Roberts’ column and John Hopkins’ letter about Ingeborg Lapointe and wanted to add my voice.

I grew up in Augusta; Ingeborg was my neighbor and my Brownie leader. Since leaving Maine for Arizona, I have called Ingeborg my friend, and my husband calls her his other mother. He does so in a German accent so it sounds more like “udder mudder,” which always makes Inge laugh!

I was touched when I read Roberts’ column, and I felt that Hopkins captured Inge’s warm and welcoming spirit. Inge has visited us in Arizona a few times, and whenever we go to Maine we always count on Inge for a warm welcome. In the winter, when I say that I want to go to Maine to warm up, my husband knows I’m missing Inge.

Ingeborg is, indeed, an extraordinary woman. She has spent her life in the service of others. Most people know Inge for her political and environmental activism, but she also has been charitable in the community. She was a devoted Girl Scout leader for many years, organized the first physical education program at Saint Mary’s School, organized charitable events in our neighborhood, and helped many people who fell upon difficult times.

Inge is such a giver that it is often difficult to give to her. Anyone who gives to Inge can expect tenfold in return. I know her children and have shared with them the frustration of trying to assist our aging parents, and how resistant parents can be to accepting help from their children.

I love Inge. She is my friend and “udder mudder.” I urge anyone who has met Inge to visit her at Gray Birch Rehabilitation Center. It is time for the community to give back to someone who has given so much.

Joan GilbSahuarita, Ariz.and Troy, Maine