Bob Wilkinson

A voracious reader, Bob had a keen eye for observation. His artistic pursuits included a penchant for poetry, humorous anecdotes, and compelling short stories that recounted moments of joy and curiosity about the world around him. Bob was a fine wood sculptor who shared his talents at artists’ open studio events on the Peninsula. He also volunteered teaching art to preschoolers. Some of the fun family activities Bob encouraged included making a mask every year that represented the Chinese New Year Zodiac animal. During multiple Chinese New Year parties, the mask was worn as the New Year chased out the old year. 

Bob was a life-long nature enthusiast who loved walking in the woods and could identify hundreds of birds. He took his kids on many thoughtfully planned backpacking trips in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, rising early to fish, make a fire, and cook breakfast. He would bang his Sierra cup to awaken the family and announce that breakfast was served. 

A dedicated family man, later in life Bob hosted family gatherings with flair. He would send out rhyming invitations, cook an elaborate spread, and create age-appropriate puzzles, games, and treasure hunts. He often sent endearing, poetic thank you notes after a day with family. 

Bob was concerned with social and environmental change. Over many decades, he focused his efforts on anti-war protest, environmental activism, and public art advocacy. As a result of his efforts and that of others, there are a number of public displays of art throughout San Mateo.

Bob is survived by four children, Steve, Sunya, Su-Lin, and Willy, seven grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and extended family in California and beyond.

A Celebration of Life https://cypresslawn.com/obituaries/name/robert-raybould-wilkinson-obituary/CS-20221214-303592 will take place on Saturday, April 12, 2 – 4 p.m. at Crosby-N. Gray & Co. Funeral Home, 2 Park Rd., Burlingame, CA 94010. It will be Livestreamed https://www.viewlogies.net/crosby/B95icrFPG?pin=518633.