Mrs. Winifred Jean Brace Robertson has been an active and giving member of the foothill communities for eight decades. A Glendora native, Mrs. Robertson grew up on a 312-acre citrus ranch above Sierra Madre and Grand avenues named "El Cielo" and attended Glendora schools throughout her childhood. She graduated from Citrus Union High School in 1946.
While attending Citrus College, Mrs. Robertson contributed to the college yearbook, "La Palma," and participated in the Girls Athletic Association which allowed her to compete in a variety of sports. She married her college sweetheart, Mr. Bob Sturrock, supporting him throughout his service as a paratrooper in the U.S. Army. After completing her education at Sawyer Business College, Mrs. Robertson began working as a draftswoman for C. Linden Barber of Covina.
Following her husband's return to the states, Mrs. Robertson personally designed their family home on Belleview Avenue. The couple also established the Sturrock Christmas Tree Farm which opened on the San Gabriel riverbank in Azusa and became a popular attraction during the holiday season, drawing notable visitors such as Ronald and Nancy Reagan.
In addition to being a successful business owner, Mrs. Robertson played a key role in one of Glendora's greatest and lasting community institutions: Foothill Presbyterian Hospital. Before construction plans were created for the hospital, Mrs. Robertson served as Foothill Hospital Auxiliary president from 1970 through 1971, helping raise funds for the groundbreaking of the facility and participating in key decision-making and planning committees.
Mrs. Robertson was the third employee hired by the hospital and she worked tirelessly in the selection and onboarding of medical providers. Mrs. Robertson led tours of the local area for visiting physicians and hosted their families in her home, persuading dozens of physicians to practice at Foothill Presbyterian. She also pioneered its volunteer program, serving as president for over 14 years. The volunteer program supports the hospital to this day which is a testament to Mrs. Robertson's leadership and early vision for the hospital.
Mrs. Robertson is the proud mother of four children and has 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She remains an active member of the Wednesday Afternoon Club, the San Dimas Historical Society and the San Dimas Corral of Westerners.
Mrs. Robertson's story was originally featured in the program for the 101st Citrus College Commencement.