Lewis Atkinson Obituary (1937 - 2017)

Lewis Charles Atkinson passed away on May 27, 2017, at the age of 80 with his wife of 55 years by his side. He was born in Bend, Oregon on April 30, 1937, to Alvin and Gertrude Atkinson, the first of three sons. Throughout his growing up years, he captivated those he met with his smile, kindness and friendliness — all while sporting a touch of humor and mischief in his eyes. He lived life with a passionate “Why not?” attitude and sincere heart. Louie graduated from Bend High School and Central Oregon College. He immersed himself in singing and dancing in musical performances, cheerleading and working various jobs including at a sawmill and for the forest service on the fire line. He then attended Brigham Young University, where he met Caren Parry on a blind date to the Preference Ball and the rest is history. The two were engaged while Louie served in the Southern States Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple on Dec. 1, 1961. Upon graduating from BYU, he accepted a job at Tooele High School where he taught History and Geography for 34 years. His creative teaching methods had a profound way of engaging students while making the lessons stick. He made his mark on the world while sharing his love of history and learning throughout his life. His most prominent attribute was a keen interest in people, be they student or stranger; Lewis loved getting to know the good in people. The light of his life was his family who he taught to work, love, laugh, tease, and serve the Lord, all while looking at the brightest parts of life. Even in his later years, while facing challenges, he was found reading scriptures and poetry, and asking his wife who they might help that day. He loved sharing a poem or quote and leaving a smile. His grandchildren loved “scratchy” kisses from an unshaven Grandpa. Louie leaves a legacy of honesty and faithful priesthood service. We know he is brightening the heavens, and will make his own unique mark in the hastening of the Lord’s work there. He leaves for a while on earth a “small but mighty” posterity in his children: Julie Ann; Scott (Kim); Susan Whitmer (Paul); Christy Bradfield (John); Craig (Karee); 16 Grandchildren, and one great granddaughter. He has been warmly greeted at his heavenly “Homecoming” by his parents, his brother, Jay and nephews Darin and Marc Atkinson. Funeral services will be Wednesday, June 7, at 11 a.m. at the Tooele Fourth Ward building (192 W. 200 South, Tooele, Utah). Visitation with family and friends will begin at 9:30 a.m. If you have any memories or photos you would like to share with the family, please send them to LewisAtkinsonMemories@gmail.com. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Lewis Charles Atkinson please visit our Sympathy Store.