Arlene Theresa Wilkinson

Arlene (Rosa) Wilkinson passed away peacefully with family present on March 25, 2017 in Placerville. She will be fondly remembered as a long-time educator, school administrator, and advocate for students.

Born in Selma, California she attended Fresno State and UC Berkeley, completing her Master’s Degree in Education. It was at UC Berkeley that she met and married Richard Wilkinson, a marriage that lasted 58 years until his passing in 2009.

Beginning in 1958, Arlene taught Chemistry at El Dorado High School. In 1969 she transferred to Ponderosa High School where she was Dean of Girls until 1971, then Vice Principle through 1974. She returned to El Dorado High School in1974 as Vice Principle, moving on as Principle until 1987. The remainder of her professional career was served in the district office as Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services until her retirement in 1992.

Family was of prime importance to Arlene. She cherished her entire extended family and took great delight in her nieces and nephews and their children. In addition to her passion for education, Arlene loved gardening and nature. Her talents were apparent throughout the year on her beautiful property in Placerville. With her husband, Richard, her generous nature is best reflected in their donation of 131 acres to the American River Conservancy.

Arlene is survived by her youngest sister, LaVerna Elaine Hofert, eight nieces and nephews, and ten grand-nieces and nephews. Services will be held on Saturday, April 8, 2017 at 11:00 am at Chapel of the Pines 2855 Cold Springs Road in Placerville. Burial will immediately follow at the Placerville Union Cemetery on Bee Street.