Renata Dobryn

Renata Dobryn, a potter and freelance carpenter who was born in Argentina and lived in Montauk for the last 30 years, died on June 13 at Stony Brook University Hospital following complications from heart surgery. She was 79.

Her family said she was a dedicated and loving mother and grandmother to not only her own family but also to many “honorary” grandchildren. She will be remembered as strong, generous, thoughtful, accepting, and curious, they said.

Ms. Dobryn was born on Aug. 26, 1936, in Buenos Aires to Rudolf Berge and the former Inge Remak. She attended the University of Buenos Aires, studying pharmacology and psychology. She lived in Beer Sheva, Israel, and Flushing, Queens, before settling in Montauk. In 1962 she married Carlos Dobryn. They had two children together but had since separated.

Her family said she loved to create with her hands and enjoyed photography, windsurfing, reading, travel, camping, and simply sitting on her porch and taking in the surroundings. “She affected so many people’s lives in such a positive way. She will be greatly missed,” her family wrote.

Ms. Dobryn is survived by a daughter, Donna Dobryn of Mill Valley, Calif., a son, Daniel Dobryn of Cos Cob, Conn., and five grandchildren. She is also survived by two siblings, Evi Berge and Raul Berge, both of Los Angeles.

A memorial service will take place on July 16 at Ms. Dobryn’s house in Montauk.