PLF Mourns Passing of Former Trustee Robin Arkley, Sr.

August 29, 2008 | By PACIFIC LEGAL FOUNDATION

PLF’s staff and family mourn the passing of former PLF trustee Robin Arkley, Sr., who died this week at age 83. A community and business leader in Humboldt County, California, Mr. Arkley was a passionate defender of property rights, a warm friend, and a dedicated family man.

He founded a forest products company and preached responsible stewardship of the land – and he practiced what he preached.

"Robin became involved with PLF because he had been a victim of government abuse," said PLF President Rob Rivett. "He had firsthand experience with regulators trying to confiscate private property. When he learned about PLF and our effectiveness, he joined our board to help our fight for constitutional rights."

Mr. Arkley was a military veteran and a loving father, leaving behind three children: Ann Tidwell, Robin Arkley, Jr., and John Arkley. His wife, Lois Matthews, whom he married in 1951, passed away in 1999.

For many years, Mr. Arkley recorded forceful, conservative editorials for a Eureka radio station. "He knew what side of the line he was on. … He had humor and wasn’t afraid to call a spade a spade," the station’s manager told a reporter.

He was known for showing respect and kindness. A city official recounted that she first met Mr. Arkley when he was changing a tire for a woman on a Eureka street.

"Robin Arkley, Sr., was a patriot in all senses of the word," said PLF President Rob Rivett. "He stood up for his country, his community, and his family. His dedication to freedom can be seen in his generosity to PLF in so many ways. He will be greatly missed, but his memory and example will continue to inspire."