Marilyn was a very proud multi-generational resident of Victoria, BC. She was predeceased by her parents Arthur and Mildred Cann and older brother (William) Bill Cann. Survived by her husband, Cliff Wilkins and their three children David (Kim), Leanne (Trudy) and Cheryl (Greg) as well as their grandchildren Sarah and Keely Wilkins and Jocelynn, Rylan and Aleah Evans. Marilyn loved her many wonderful nieces and nephews as well as her “sister” Gail. She was grateful for the numerous friendships made throughout the years.
She attended the following schools: Cloverdale, Central, S.J. Willis, Mt. View High and the University of Victoria. She earned her teaching certificate and taught at George Jay, Doncaster, Braefoot and Willows schools. She loved working in the elementary grades and found great joy in working with children with special needs. She volunteered with the Canadian Cancer Society and visited schools to present facts to the children.
She married Cliff Wilkins in the summer of 1959 at Centennial United Church where they attended for many years, including her teaching at Sunday School and joining C.G.I.T. in her youth. She was also a Brownie and Girl Guide, took piano and theory lessons, joined many clubs such as the Red Cross, Glee, Y-Teens, Future Teacher’s, Home and School, International Order of King’s Daughters and Sons. Through the years she played grass hockey, basketball, bowling and baseball. She advocated for 9-1-1 in Victoria and was involved with the Epilepsy Society as well as volunteering with the P.T.A. at Doncaster Elementary. She enjoyed skiing at Mt. Washington and playing golf with Cliff and their friends. As a family they loved the many years of trailering with the Vagabond Trailer Club. They were also fortunate to be able to travel with friends to many locations around the world and enjoyed several cruises. Marilyn took up watercolour floral painting with lessons from Caren Heine and this connected well with her love of flowers and gardening. Her crocheted lace tablecloths were intricately patterned, and she also knitted sweaters, squares and hats to help people in need. They lived on Tattersall Drive for 53 years and created many fond memories of their home and neighbourhood. They then moved to Falcon Ridge Estates volunteering and participating in clubhouse activities with their neighbours. Later they enjoyed The Victorian Retirement home where they met many of the friendly residents and staff. Thanks to everyone at Rest Haven Lodge in Sidney for their care in the last few months.
Marilyn was a kind-hearted soul who touched many lives. Her gentle nature was appreciated, and she was often referred to as the “sweetest person I ever met.”
In lieu of flowers, please consider performing an act of kindness or donate to a charity of your choice.
A Memorial Service, with the Reverend Alanna Menu officiating, will be held in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, Victoria, on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 2:00pm.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Wilkins” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
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Terri Watts
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Elaine Castle To Cliff and family, with fond memories of Marilyn especially during the 40 years of Ladies Bridge Club.
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Wendy Wilkins Auntie Marilyn was such a gentle, sweet, bright soul. It’s hard to think of her not here anymore. I remember many gatherings & visits at the house on Tattersol, just so many fond memories including one time she was a brownie parent helper along with my mom at a brownie camp I did. She left a legacy of love & compassion. I will miss you dearly aunt Marilyn, say hi to mom & dad for me. Sincerest sympathies to Uncle Clifford, cousin Leanne, David & Cheryl ❤️
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Rick Griffin I taught with Cliff for many years at Arbutus.
I only saw Marilyn at social events.
She had a smile that filled the room, and a personality to match.
Though she did not know me well, I always felt seen and heard in her presence.
Her effervescence and love of life was obvious, and contagious.
We lost a good one, for sure.
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Hilary Girard (Shires) Dear Wilkins family,
So very sorry to hear of this sad news. I remember fondly time at our cabin and the many adventures on Vagabond getaways. Marilyn always had such a crazy sweet twinkle in her eyes when she smiled, and she filled the room with her giggles. She taught me many a card game in my younger years (some that I still play today) and with that the art of patience where teaching was concerned. Keep your memories close to your hearts, she will not be forgotten by any who knew her.
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Sandra and Rolf Marilyn was an educational assistant for our daughter Tasha who has complex special needs. Marilyn provided Tasha a safe and happy school experience. That was over 30 years ago and to this day Tasha still mentions ‘Wilkins’. There’s a very special place in our hearts for Marilyn.
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Gloria Metzger My condolences to you Cliff and to the rest of your family. I know that Marilyn was the center of your life in so many ways and will be dearly missed by all of you.
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Janice Madson So sorry to all the family. She was very dear to our family’s heart as are all of you. My heart hurts hearing the news. We are thinking of all of you❤️ Janice,Rob,Nadine and Heather Madson Think there is a big camping gathering happening in heaven
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Rod Wilkins Oh, Kind and Gentle Woman
The first reaction I had when trying to write this is when an old Carol Burnett song immediately came to mind “Thanks for the Memories!” Indeed there was! From the time when I walked down the aisle in front of her as a ring bearer at Metropolitan United to the stay at Island Hall’s cabin on the beach, being spoiled rotten, as too those times I spent at their apartment and Tattersall. To say that she was my favorite Aunt is an understatement especially when she allowed me to sit on her lap and “drive” the red and black chevy up the hill to pick up Uncle Cliff at UVic. Even when Leanne and David and later Cheryl arrived there was still love and support left over for her nieces and nephews and our children. One of our happiest days is when Cory and I asked Uncle Cliff and Aunty Marilyn to stand up for us at our 40th anniversary renewal that was anointed with both tears and fulfillment. Oh, Kind and Gentle WomanLove Rod and Cory
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Dean Hoyle David I didn’t know or I don’t remember your other siblings.
But I remember going to your house on Tayler an several times meeting your dad and your mother as we worked on a few projects for school.
I lost my mom February 11, 2025 and this is a tough one that one to know that you can never hear your voice again or reach out so my condolences david to your family and yourself rest in peace Mrs. Wilkins. And Mr. Wilkins has lost his Soul Mate 1959 to 2026 that’s many years of loving. I’m saddened David may you find your Peace
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Donna Derbyshire Marilyn truly was a sweetheart. She spoke so kindly of the people in her life. My parents enjoyed many get togethers at Friendship club, picnics and New Year’s Eve. also their adventures with the Vagabonds. A true lady and friend. I was blessed to call her “friend” along side my Mom and Dad.
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Denise Brend My sincere condolences to the whole family. May the memory of her life bring you joy.
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Greg O’Connor A lovely person. My condolences to the Wilkins family.
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David Wilkins Thanks for everything and always being there for me, mom. I’m already missing you.
Marilyn was my godmother and very close friends with my parents Faye and Ken Cook in the early days of their marriages. I have two of her paintings that my mom had purchased and I love them. I was looking at them today and that caused me to search on line. I remember her exactly as described by everyone, beautiful, always smiling and so very kind. condolences to her whole family.