Jerry H. Robinson

Jerry H. Robinson, born December 4, 1932, died April 18, 2026

Jerry was born in Mason City, Iowa, son of Moe L. and Annette (Kropman) Robinson. He was raised in South Dakota and Iowa. He attended the University of Iowa, where he met Leona Ohsman of Cedar Rapids. He graduated in 1954 with a degree in accounting. He served with great pride as an officer for two years in the United States Army in Germany.

In 1956, he and Leona married. They soon sought warmer climes and new adventures on the West Coast. What began as a temporary road trip landed them permanently in the San Francisco Bay Area. Freed from snow, they never looked back.

Jerry graduated from Stanford Law School and joined the San Francisco law firm Heller, Ehrman, White, and McAullife, where he enjoyed a distinguished career as a partner and accomplished tax lawyer. He was recognized for his generous provision of pro bono services.

Jerry was a man of many talents and interests. He was an accomplished woodworker, organic gardener, jazz pianist, model train and classic car enthusiast, grill master, memoirist, and photographer. Over the years, he enjoyed backpacking, golf, tennis, and tai chi. He traveled worldwide. He and Leona settled in Terra Linda, California, where they raised three children, were active in the community, and were instrumental in establishing the Terra Linda Open Space Preserve. They were married 32 years, until Leona's death from cancer in 1988.

Jerry subsequently met and married Diana Cohen Robinson, to whom he was also married 32 years. He and Diana lived in San Francisco and enjoyed gardening, cooking, the symphony, hosting friends and family at their second home in Cobb, and many travels. They shared a love of dogs, and, in particular, their beloved Truffle and Cookie.

Jerry is survived by Diana; his children Vicki Robinson of Washington D.C., Brenda Robinson of Athens, Ohio, and Andrew Robinson and his wife, Mallika, of Melbourne, Australia; grandchildren Kavya Robinson (Melbourne) and Netanya Robinson (Hong Kong); Diana's children Lisa, Lauren, David, and Marshall; many nieces, nephews, and extended family members; and dear friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Southern Poverty Law Center.