Richard Atkinson Obituary

Richard Lee Atkinson-known to friends and family as Dick- peacefully passed away at home on January 19, 2025. Born on November 18, 1929, in Herington, KS. Dick was a loving and dedicated man whose life was marked by service to his country, devotion to his family and his Christian faith.
Dick spent his childhood in Keddie, California and his family returned to Salem, Illinois in his teens to join extended family. After high school, Dick attended classes at the University of Illinois. He then enlisted in the United States Air Force. After being commissioned as an officer, Dick received orders to report to Sculthorpe Air Force Base in Norfolk, England.
But then, in 1955, he met Esther Mae Easley at a car dealership, and in a daring twist, they married just three weeks later-beginning a 69-year journey together. The newlyweds began their life together in England, and in the ensuing years enjoyed assignments in the Western United States, including Glasgow, Montana; Sacramento, California; Mountain Home, Idaho; and Spokane, Washington.
Over the years, Dick became an accomplished military pilot with hundreds of hours in the cockpit of a B-52. A natural leader who served with distinction, he rose to the rank of Colonel before retiring in 1974. He then moved his family to Hayden Lake, Idaho, where he enjoyed golfing, spending time with loved ones, and caring for his grandchildren. In 2003, he and Esther relocated to Enumclaw, Washington, where he participated actively in the Enumclaw Church of Christ.
Dick is survived by his wife, Esther E. Atkinson; his son, Steve Atkinson MD, of Lopez Island, Washington; his daughter, Ann Jaleen Berryman of Seattle, Washington; five grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Clara Atkinson. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at the Tahoma National Cemetery (18600 Southeast 240th Street, Kent, Washington, 98042).
As we remember Dick, we reflect on the comforting words of Psalm 34:18: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." We invite you to share your memories and photographs of Dick on his memorial page, so that his life of dedication, love and faith may continue to inspire and bring solace to those who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to support the Kibler Ave Church of Christ: kiblerchurchofchrist.org.