Sku model 858-956. The dipswitches are in the battery compartment. When new batteries were put into the remote control the fan didn't work remotely. I think that the wife hit the switch. If not why doesn't the remote work?

Well check the dip switches in the receiver and see do they match.

Ceiling fan remote controls - help and FAQ- Ceiling Fans N More (http://www.ceiling-fans-n-more.com/ceiling-fan-remote-controls.php)