Robert John Atkinson
Holt, Michigan
Born July 12, 1934, in Owosso, Michigan, son of the late Elmer and Martha (Thelen) Atkinson passed away on Saturday, November 3, 2018, at age 84.
Bob loved his country, his family, and MSU. He served in the U.S. Army, in Germany, during the post WWII occupation. Bob was also an avid golfer and was known for his wit and sense of humor. He retired from General Motors following 38 years of service.
Surviving are his wife of 60 years, Barbara Atkinson; their three children, Terri (Tom) Shaver, John Atkinson, and Mike (Ann) Atkinson; nine grandchildren, Autumn, Tom, Rachel, Lucas, Amanda, Michael, Matthew, Veronica, and Chris; five great-grandchildren, Corbin, Kira, Brody, Kira, and Chloe; two brothers, Richard (Judy) Atkinson and Jim (Elma) Atkinson; sister, Jan (Dave) Paul along with many nieces, nephews and other extended family members.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Tom (Judy) Atkinson.
A memorial service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, November 9, 2018, at Great Lakes Christian Homes, 2050 S. Washington Rd. in Holt. The family will receive friends at the Great Lakes Christian Homes on Friday for one hour prior to the service. Mr. Atkinson’s cremated remains will be laid to rest, with Military Honors, in a private ceremony at Cherry Grove Cemetery in Clare.
Those who wish may make memorial contributions, in Bob’s memory, to Paralyzed Veterans of America, 801 Eighteenth Street NW, Washington DC, 20006-3517.
4 Messages to “Robert John Atkinson”
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Mike Atkinson Sr
November 5, 2018 at 9:39 amMy Dad’s story is a love story.
He loves his country.
He loves his family.
Most of all, he loves my mom.
There isn’t a better example for a child, then seeing a father, time after time, caring for and showing his love to his wife.
Thank you Dad for holding us all together with your love. I’m so proud of you and I’m blessed that I’ve learned many things to pass on to my family.
You have touched the lives of many people. Not even knowing your impact, just by doing what’s right and approaching every situation with honesty and a sincere concern for everyone involved.
Simply put, you are our hero in every way and truly make this world a better place. Not just while you walked with us, but as all your family and friends share your lessons with their loved ones.
What a gift you are to all of us! THANK YOU DAD!
Your son,
Mike
Jan Atkinson Paul
November 6, 2018 at 3:16 pmWhat a beautiful tribute to your father. On behalf of the whole Atkinson Family we will truly miss Bob and his way of surrendering us all with caring words, strength and unconditional love. A hero to us all in the Atkinson Family.
We say goodbye and take our love into your journey.
Dick and Judy and family
Jim and Elma and family
Dave and Jan and family
Jan Paul
November 6, 2018 at 5:37 pmOn behalf of the Extended Atkinson Family we are all sadden by the passing of our dear brother, Bob. He was a wonderful man. He cared for others first. He was humble, kind and giving to all who knew him. We spent many times together cheering on his team,”The Spartan’s “ and if we couldn’t be together, this was a topic of discussion in our phone calls. Thank you Bob for sharing your caring life with us.
Love you forever.
Brothers Dick, Jim and sister, Jan.
Sisters-in-law’s Judy, Elma and brother-in-law, Dave
Plus Nieces and Nephews
David Paul
November 7, 2018 at 7:12 pmI had a chance to know Bob for 57 years and for a period in his life he lived with Jan and myself which gave us some additional insight. You have mentioned his love for Barb Barb but no one has mentioned his love for ice cream. It did not last long between him and myself.
His will power was intense and the best example I can think of is when he quit smoking. He quit and was able to leave a partial pack on his dresser and never smoked again. I don”t think he ever noticed that I probably took a few along the way.
My memory of the pride and honor he showed was the day that he walked Jan down the isle to marry me. He represented the Atkinson Family well. I saw that same look when Melanie got married.
Jan always told me that she had 4 brothers that would kick my butt if I didn’t behave and that her oldest was ex military. I was finally able to relax some after I got a chance to know Bob.
Bob made my life richer for the many experiences that we were able to share over many years including our support of the Spartans.
I was always proud to tell people he was my brother in law.