After a long period of declining health, Robert Shryer Wilkinson, husband of Joan Wilkinson, died peacefully on July 22, 2013.

He was the son of the late Robert Shryer Wilkinson Sr. and Viola Keinofer Wilkinson.

He was born on May 27, 1925 in Cumberland, MD, and attended Allegheny High until joining the Air Corp in l943, where he served until l946.

He attended the University of Maryland on the GI Bill and graduated with a degree in economics in l95l.

Most of his business career was spent with the International Paint Company in various capacities; chemist, sales manager, yacht division and technical director of the yacht division in the U.S. and worldwide. The Wilkinsons moved from Union, N.J. to Tryon in l986, where Bob pursued his interests in gardening, bridge, traveling, bird watching and computers.

In addition to his wife of 65 years he leaves a daughter, Diane Wilkinson of Durham, N.C.; a son, Mark Wilkinson (Terry) of Lawrence, Ka.; and a sister, Shirley Parsons of Augusta, WV. Also surviving are five grandchildren Eowyn, Lisa, Lauren, Nate and Claire; and two great-grandsons, Hudson and Arlo.

At his request there will be no memorial services.

The family appreciates the loving care received by the staff and volunteers of Hospice.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of the Carolina Foothills, 135 Forest Glen Dr., Columbus, N.C. 28782.

An online guest register may be signed at www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com