Lasting Memories
John Pilkington
March 26, 1945-March 4, 2017
Portola Valley, California
John (Jack) Leslie Pilkington, 71, a 30-year resident of Portola Valley, passed March 4, 2017.
He was born March 26, 1945, in San Francisco, California, to Leslie Pilkington and Edith Marie (Leonard) Pilkington, and grew up on the family ranch in La Honda.
He is survived by his wife, Joyce Jelich of Portola Valley, California; his sister Susan (Pilkington) Ewy of Sparks, Nevada; his son William J. Pilkington, daughter in law Brook Pilkington, grandchildren Savannah and Wesley of Santa Cruz; his daughter, Robin-Aimee Bente; son-in-law Mike Bente of Priest River Idaho; granddaughter Tiffany Ribron; great-grandchildren Elijah and Kayden of Oahu Hawaii; his son, Frank W. Clark and daughter-in-law Martha Clark of Redwood City,; his goddaughters, Carrie Webb and Rachel Elkins; additional family, Ann Greig, and many cousins and friends.
After graduating from Pescadero High School in 1963, Jack spent some time at the College of San Mateo. He then enlisted in the United States Marines (23d Marines HQ/23 - San Bruno, California) in 1964 and served until 1970.
Jack worked for the Woodside Fire Protection District for 21 years, participating in the Fireman Olympics and serving the community and surrounding areas of Woodside. He retired in 1987.
He was an avid horseman and motocross rider, enjoying Indian Dunes, Baylands, and Virginia City. In his spare time he enjoyed his orchards, the tractors, playing poker with his buddies, traveling the states with Joyce and Jake, spending time in Maui with Joyce and always helping his family and friends.
April 12, 2017
April 5, 2017
I'm deeply saddened on hearing of my friend's passing, from working in the Fire Dept together to riding dirt bikes in Mexico there was never a dull moment.!! To the only person that I know of that rode his Maico thru the Miramar Cantina in San Felipe..!!! So rare in today's world an original person and a real cowboy..!! I'll see you on the side "Pilky"...Mil
March 17, 2017
Strength & Prayers to the family I've known you all for so many years so sorry for your Loss My Whole family loved your Dad and he was one of my Dads Buddies I'll never forget when he bought that Corvette from my Dad I was so jealous I thought I was gonna get that some day boy was I wrong. He sure has been threw the ringer for the last couple year he's a tough man god love him and seems to always keep that smile on his face. We all Love you Jack & family love the McMills Family ?? You will all be a part of our Family & Life, Say Hi to my Ma & Pa ????????
March 15, 2017
Dear Pilkington family. Robin we are so very sorry to hear about your daddy's passing. He was a good man from the story's you shared. Even the last few years with his accident and his recovery issues he managed to get through. I wish I had words to help ease your loss and pain but I do not. Just know how much he loved his family, I know he knows how much his family loved him.. keep the good memories close to your heart. Like a candle or plant some flowers this way you and his spirit will know you are thinking about him. I'm so very sorry you all have to deal with loosing him. Please know I'm thinking and praying for you. Love you
March 13, 2017
Jack buddy, you were bigger than life with a heart just as big. You were my best friend throughout high school and we were both quite the rebel rousers and gave our parents quite a bit of grief. After high school our lives went in different directions but we always maintained the special bond that we shared even throughout our adult lives and when together acted as though time stood still. Often wondered how we survived some of our get- togethers later in life. You will be sorely missed. Jack, stay out of trouble until we can create double trouble together once again. Love ya Bro, Jim Myers
March 10, 2017
Our sympathy to Jacks family. Have a wonderful Memorial of Jacks life who was bigger than life.. Joyce and I met in third grade at Portola Valley School been buddies for along time. She has my deepest sympathy. Aloha
March 9, 2017
With heartfelt Sympathy, wishing you peace and comfort in the misdt of your sorrow. Jack was my classmate and graduated with me in 1963.
March 7, 2017
Sending our heartfelt sympathy for your loss of Jack -He was a strong man that has fought one of hardest battles to survive that I have ever heard of -certainly proud as you all should be- each day he had was a blessing to you all- May the gates of Heaven open with waiting arms.