Wesley W. Robinson. Courtesy photo.


Wesley W. Robinson

1948-2025

It is with heavy, but oh so grateful hearts that we announce the passing of Wesley W. Robinson Sr., 77, of Lakeport, California. 

He peacefully left us knowing, without a doubt, how deeply he was loved on Dec. 29, 2025, in Sebastopol, California — just one day shy of the 58th wedding anniversary to his forever bride, Ginna.

Wes, affectionately known as “Smiley” throughout his childhood and into adulthood, entered this world on Sept. 8, 1948, in San Francisco. He was welcomed by his parents, Woody and Geneva Robinson, and siblings Larry, Fred, Linda and Judy.

Wes grew up in the Buri Buri area of South San Francisco, attending El Camino High School through his junior year. Wes transferred to Capuchino High School for his senior year, Class of 1966.

It was at Capuchino where he met Ginna Campbell — and where their love story began.

Wes and Ginna were married on Dec. 30, 1967, in San Bruno, with their reception held at the Millbrae Pancake House. Married at just 17 and 19 years old, they were told by many that they were too young and that it would never last. 

They were clearly wrong. Through near and far, richer and poorer, sickness and health, Wes and Ginna shared a love that others admired and envied, proving the naysayers wrong time and time again.

Together, Wes and Ginna made their home in several Peninsula cities, including Millbrae, San Bruno, San Mateo, Foster City, Woodside and Redwood City, before ultimately finding their slice of heaven in Lakeport, California, where they moved in 1991.

In 2021, they followed their daughter and son-in-law to Idaho, where they resided until November 2025. They returned to Lakeport on Nov. 24, 2025, and Wes was hospitalized the following day.

Along with his brother Fred, Wes owned and operated A-1 Auto Body Shop, located at 1720 El Camino Real in San Bruno, from 1977 to 2010. Wes and Ginna worked side by side at the shop for 33 years — Wes in the shop and Ginna handling the books. Wes had a work ethic like no other and truly lived by the motto “Work hard, play harder.” Over the years, he built lasting friendships with customers and colleagues alike.

The shop provided a wonderful life for Wes and his family. He and Ginna raised four children, beginning in 1968 with three daughters and welcoming their son in 1979. From family vacations to birthdays and holidays, Wes worked tirelessly to provide the best life possible for his crew. He never — not once — failed any of us.

Wes was a lifelong athlete, beginning with Little League baseball as a child. He continued through high school sports and later played softball in San Mateo-area leagues for many years. Sports were where Wes formed many of his lifelong friendships. He was a generous friend, and it’s often been said, “Everyone loves Wes.”

Wes loved the San Francisco 49ers, the San Francisco Giants, playing tennis and ultimately golf. He loved music — especially doo-wop, 60s and 70s soft rock — and “Miracles” by Jefferson Starship will forever be their song. 

He loved a ruby–red grapefruit and raspberry vodka in a red solo cup, good food and boating on Clear Lake. 

Wes was a go-with-the-flow kind of guy, and it didn't matter what he was doing as long as he was doing it with Ginna, his family and his friends. As long as everyone was having a good time, all was right in his world.

Wes will forever be loved and missed by his wife, Ginna; daughters, Shauna (Dave), Linda (Manuel) and Shea (Daryl); and son, Wesley Jr. (Sho). 

He was adored by and deeply involved in the lives of his 16 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, and he was looking forward to welcoming two more great-granddaughters in the spring. He also leaves behind many relatives and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Please join us in celebrating Wes’s life on Jan. 24 at the Lakeport Senior Center, 527 Konocti Ave., Lakeport, at noon for lunch, music, stories — and no doubt, many tears.

Our Dad’s greatest mission in life was making sure our mom was taken care of.

You can finally rest now, Dad, knowing that we have it from here.

Arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, 707-263-0357 or 707-994-5611, or visit chapelofthelakes.com

LCNews

Award winning journalism on the shores of Clear Lake.