Obituary of Esther Wilhelmina Christina Robinson

Esther Wilhelmina Christina (Anderson) Robinson February 1, 1912 - April 8, 2020 With great sadness, we mourn the loss of Esther Wilhelmina Christina Robinson. She was devoted to her family, and brought comfort, kindness, and friendship to many. Esther passed away at her home in Mesa, AZ, she was 108. She was predeceased by husband Charles "Harold” Robinson, and son Charles Robinson. Esther was the fifth of seven children born to Swedish parents Nils Magnus Robert Anderson and Selma Maria Gabrielson in Harcourt, Webster County, Iowa. Growing up on a farm instilled love of family, strength from religion, and independence. She was the only sibling to graduate from high school. Harold Robinson was the love of her life, they exchanged wedding vows at Bethlehem Lutheran Church on January 12, 1935 in Fort Dodge, Iowa. Life and adventure took them from Iowa to sunny California where they made their home. They were blessed with two children, Charles and Marian. In 1955, the family went on a road trip along the Alaska Highway. Widowed early, she worked to provide for her family. Prior to relocating to Arizona, Esther was a dedicated member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, in Thousand Oaks, California. She was active in the church's charitable quilting group Dorcas Circle, and also volunteered at the Lutheran Thrift Shop. Church members were extended family, and many cared and looked in on her, as the independent Esther lived on her own to 101-1/2. Her family is forever grateful for their kindness. Her artistic side flourished with the quilters at the Thousand Oaks Senior Center and Dorcas Circle. Dorcas made and donated quilts as baptismal gifts and for those in need. Family members were fortunate to receive her handiwork also. She loved to teach her grandchildren and great-grandchildren how to draw, her favorite was the palm tree which was absent in her childhood. She always had time for family and loved making friends. She had a sweet tooth for chocolate, always had a baked good on hand, loved to send and receive handwritten letters, and enjoyed a crossword puzzle. As a centenarian, she saw many changes in the world: electricity, telephone, radio, television, refrigeration, computers, including auto, air, and space travel. In 2005, she was a nominee for Senior of the Year in her hometown. Always kind and caring, she was a role model to all. Grieving her loss and celebrating her life are Marian Whedon; Karen (James) Gibson; Eric (Toni) Whedon, Jake and Katelyn; Ronald (Jetuan) Whedon, Ava and Rowan; Amy (James) Haight, Meghan; Eva Robinson, and her extended family who was very dear to her. Her life celebration will be postponed until it is safe for loved ones to gather.