by Valerie Rojas
Assistant Editor
After more than 51 years of service to his community, University of La Verne Alumnus, Virgil Wilkinson died on Aug. 25. He was 82 years old.
Mr. Wilkinson is survived by his wife, Euline; three children, Steven, Janet and Linda; one sister; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Mr. Wilkinson attended the University of La Verne from 1939 to 1943, where he was student body president. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in 1943.
In 1946, Mr. Wilkinson was employed by the University as business manager and later as director of personnel, serving full-time for 40 years.
He continued to work at the University as a part-time consultant for 11 years.
Mr. Wilkinson received his Master of Arts degree from Claremont Graduate School in 1953.
Mr. Wilkinson was admired by many.
His service to those around him did not go unacknowledged.
In 1973, he was named alumnus of the year.
In 1986, Mr. Wilkinson was presented with a “Pride of La Verne” plaque from the city council, commemorating more than 40 years of selfless service to the community.
Mr. Wilkinson was not only a dedicated and vital contributor on the University of La Verne campus, but also to the surrounding city and its residents.
From 1964 to 1965, he served as president of the Lions Club and in 1965, as president of the La Verne Chamber of Commerce.
As a member of the Church of the Brethren, Mr. Wilkinson, along with his wife, Euline, served as a Life Deacon.
He also served as treasurer for the Church of the Brethren District Conference for more than 20 years and as an usher.
A memorial service was held last Saturday in honor of this outstanding man, who will not only be missed on our campus, but in our community.
