Warren Dorn, 87

(Associated Press) SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. - Warren Dorn, a longtime Los Angeles County supervisor who fought for clean air and better public medical services during his 16 years in office, died Tuesday. He was 87.

Dorn, who moved to Morro Bay on the Central California coast after retiring from the board in 1972, was surrounded by his family when he died of pneumonia at Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center in San Luis Obispo, said his son Dan. His wife of 63 years, Phyllis, was holding his hand at the time.

"They told each other how much they love each other, which was wonderful. And all of his kids and grandkids were at his side," his son said.

Dorn was elected in 1956 to represent the county's fifth district. He was chairman of the board in 1963 and 1964.

He was credited with helping create the county's Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Commission and its Commission on Alcoholism, as well as working to enforce tough air pollution standards and improve services at county hospitals. He also worked to help establish the Music Center in Los Angeles' downtown Civic Center.

"He really enjoyed serving as supervisor," said Supervisor Mike Antonovich, who now represents Dorn's district. "He was a real committed citizen, a citizen's politician who really loved his work and the service he provided."

Born in Pasadena in 1918, Dorn was a teacher and worked in real estate before entering politics in 1949 when he became a member of the city's Board of Directors.

Besides his wife and son, Dorn is survived by a daughter, Jennifer, and a second son, Robert, as well as grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A funeral was scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday at St. Timothy's Catholic Church in Morro Bay.