The 85-year adventure of Jerry Atkinson came to a close on April 10, 2017.  Soon after his passing social media lit up with photos and memories of him.  Words like funny, smiling, hardworking and generous were used to describe him.  He was a mentor and teacher to many.  Jerry was one-of-a-kind and lived life his way.

Jerry loved the outdoors and hunting.   His favorite passion though, was working on houses.  He was a junk picker and house flipper long before it was cool.  He was happiest with a hammer in one hand and paint brush in the other.  Jerry loved family get togethers.  He hardly missed a one.  His annual corn roasts years ago were family favorites and fodder for many memories. 

He loved his family; wife Gert (Teachworth) Atkinson, sons Randy (Terri) Atkinson, Rick Atkinson, Rod (Beth) Atkinson and daughter Velvet (Brian) Atkinson-Fuller.  His siblings, Doug (Carol) Atkinson, Connie Welton, Ron (Kay) Atkinson, Betty Knight (deceased) and Dale Atkinson (deceased).  Jerry loved his grandkids Aaron, Amber, Cris, Jeremy, Rachel, and bonus grandson Myles, great grandkids, nieces and nephews.  They have many Gramps and Uncle Jerry stories to share!

Jerry was a veteran of the US Naval Reserves, retired from the State of Michigan, and a self- employed painting contractor.  He was a generous giver to many charities and a Boy Scout Troop leader.

The family invites you to join them on Saturday, April 22 from 1pm-3pm for a Memorial Luncheon at the Faith Fellowship Church at 3955 E. Price Rd., St. Johns, MI  48879.

Honoring his wishes, cremation has taken place.  To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Jerry's online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit:  www.ChristiansenCares.com 

Arrangements were entrusted to Christiansen Cremation & Funeral Care, Greenville.