Robyn Sikking

Robyn Sikking, well known local artist, made her transition August 31, 2005, at age 93. Robyn and her husband, Bruce L. Sikking, were the original owners and creators of Robyn’s Gift Shop in the building that continues to house a gift shop in the center of Fallbrook. It was Fallbrook’s original Post Office building. They also owned and operated the ceramic factory known as Robyn’s Ceramics on Dougherty Road from 1948 to 1954, employing more than 20 people. Robyn’s original designs of Santa Claus, reindeer, Santa’s sleigh and angels were shipped all over the world.

Robyn was said to have been one of the most copied artists in California. When the Japanese were making more of her angels then she was, they closed the ceramic factory and moved to Idyllwild, CA, full time, opening a gift shop there known as the Grey Squirrel. In 1960 the Sikkings were persuaded to open a second Grey Squirrel in Orange County, retaining their home in Idyllwild. They still continued to make ceramics, but mostly forest animals. Robyn continued to create in all sorts of mediums. She never stopped creating; in fact, she was still making and selling natural flower cards and handmade bead jewelry up until about six months ago. Robyn’s early pieces were recently shown in a new book of California ceramic artists. And, there was a showing of her work at the Fallbrook Library within the last year.

Bruce made his transition in 1974.

Robyn was born November 9, 1911, in Los Angeles and married Bruce in June of 1929. They lived and worked together most of those years. He called her “Sweetheart” even in business and she has been true to her “Honey” all these years, living almost as a recluse.

Robyn is survived by three daughters: Robyn J. Stuart, Corning, CA, and Laurilyn Burson and Rev. Dr. Audrey Turner, Escondido, CA. She has 15 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.