Cleary died in Boise, Idaho, where she and her husband moved upon his retirement after more than 23 years as head of the university.

"During Jim Cleary's tenure as CSUN's president, Mrs. Cleary was a vibrant presence on campus, contributing much to the university and the presidency," said current CSUN President Jolene Koester. "She was an avid bridge player, a gracious host, a good friend to faculty, students, staff, administrators and alumni. Her spirit will be missed."

In addition to her work supporting her husband, Mary Cleary was an enthusiastic member of the University Women's Club. In 1984, the club honored her leadership role by initiating the Mary Cleary Scholarship to benefit international students.

A native of Milwaukee, Wis., Mary Cleary received her bachelor's degree in philosophy from Marquette University in 1948 and went on to teach primary grades in the Milwaukee public school system.

In 1950, she married James Cleary. The couple moved to California in 1969, when he was named president of Cal State Northridge.

In addition to her husband, Mary Cleary is survived by two daughters, Colleen and Janet, and two granddaughters. A third daughter passed away in 2000 from cancer.

A funeral mass and memorial service for Mary Cleary will be held May 22 at St. John's Cathedral in Boise, Idaho.

A memorial service for her will be held at Cal State Northridge from 3 to 5 p.m. on June 11 in the Grand Salon of the University Student Union on the east side of the campus off Zelzah Avenue.