June 1, 1929 – January 2, 2022 Glendale, California
Clarli Marie Wilson passed away peacefully on January 2nd, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born to Kitty and Charlie Miller in Santa Monica, CA., the oldest of three. Following high school, she attended Santa Monica City College. In 1948, she met Scott Wilson on a blind date. He thought she had a lot to say and she liked his smile. They married a year later. Ron was born in 1950, followed by Christine in 1952. That same year they moved to Eagle Rock, where Scott taught agriculture at ERHS. In 1957, they built their beautiful home nearby, living there together until Scott’s death in 2011.
Clarli returned to college in 1971, earning her BA in Anthropology at California State University, Los Angeles. Her quest for learning never stopped.
Clarli had many passions. She loved art, taking numerous classes and becoming a talented painter. Clarli was an avid reader, involved in book groups for over 40 years. She also loved to write, using her exceptional corresponding skills to reach out to people on behalf of numerous service organizations and for her many philanthropic causes. Other lifelong pleasures included gardening, knitting, sewing, cooking, entertaining, and beating Scott at gin rummy.
Clarli and Scott were also adventurous world travelers, exploring spectacular gardens and museums, all while soaking up the local culture. Married for 62 years, they made a good team, helping each other in their shared and individual life endeavors. When Scott founded North East Trees in 1989, Clarli supported his dream of planting five trees a day for their grandchildren. A vast urban forest is testament to their lifelong dedication to them. Clarli backed many other worthy causes, including volunteering at the Suicide Prevention Center during the ’60s, joining groups that advanced women’s rights, and always giving generously to organizations that advocate for equality in all areas of society.
Shortly before her 90th birthday, she moved to Windsor in Glendale and made many new friends.
Clarli was an awesome Mom, teaching her children and grandchildren right from wrong, to be independent, and inspiring them to follow their dreams.
She is survived by her children, Ron Wilson (Cindy Myers) and Christine Richards (Paul), her grandchildren, Nick Wilson (Aubrey), Cait Wilson (Jason Suhrke), Hilary Richards (fiancé Erik Ruiz), and Hailey Richards; her brother, Walt Miller (Monica) and her brother-in law, Otis Wilson (June). She also leaves behind her extended family and countless friends.
Perhaps Clarli’s greatest gift was her ability to meet a stranger and make a friend for life. Her spirit, smile, laughter, wit, and generosity will remain with all those who love and miss her.
Her Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, April 9th, at 2pm, at the Neighborhood Unitarian Universalist Church, 301 N. Orange Grove Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91103. Please RSVP: [email protected]
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to North East Trees: northeasttrees.org
Published by Los Angeles Times on Mar. 13, 2022.
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