Marilyn Donaldson Winkler

Marilyn Donaldson Winkler, dearly loved, truly missed, died May 11, 2023, age 97.Born and raised in Hillsborough, CA; of parents Melvin Smith Donaldson and Adelheid (Heidi) Saier Donaldson, whose parents were California pioneers of Scottish and German descent.Graduated Burlingame High School, Student Body President; graduated University of Michigan, Chi Omega. While attending University of California, Hastings School of Law, she met and began dating her future husband, then Hastings 3rd-year and Student Body President, Robert V. Winkler, who convinced her she would not be needing her law degree. Only after marriage and raising four children did she return to U.C. Boalt School of Law and finish her Juris Doctorate degree. She subsequently managed the law offices of several attorneys.Married on her birthday in 1951, Robert and Marilyn moved to San Leandro in 1955 where Robert had his law practice. Four children over 12 years kept Marilyn busy. She was devoted to her children's formal and extracurricular educations. Marilyn was also active in her husband's law offices, hiring the best new lawyer graduates for her husband's practice. They hosted fund raising and campaign parties at their home for judicial candidates, congressmen, and governors.Marilyn was an active Episcopalian, having been a member of St. Matthews, All Saints, St. Cuthberts and currently Holy Cross, Castro Valley. She was active in Questors. She fought for the preservation of coastal access. Second generation member P.E.O. Sisterhood, providing educational opportunities for women. She loved travel, history, gardening, music, reading, cooking, and entertaining.Predeceased in 2005 by her beloved husband Robert. Survived by her four children and spouses, Heidi, Robert (Karen), William (Alanni), Susan (Steve); grandchildren Victor, Alex, Elise, Daniel, Kimberly, Robert, Biagio, Josh, Jake; great-grandchildren, Robert, Atlas, Chelsea, Emily, and Leo.Memorial Services: June 3, 2023, 1:00pm, Holy Cross Church,19179 Center St., Castro Valley.Donations in lieu of flowers to either Friends of San Leandro Creek or the San Leandro Boys & Girls Club.