Terry Leon Atkinson passed away at 8:12 a.m. on Thursday, January 10, 2019. He was at home where he wanted to be, surrounded by family.
Terry was born to the late Herbert and Edith (Coppock) Atkinson in Jonesboro, where he grew up. He then moved to Van Buren in his teens and resided there until his passing.
He met the love of his life, Velma Jean Han, and they lived an adventuresome life together before she passed away in 2004.
Terry graduated from Van Buren High School in 1957. Working at General Motors for 48 years as a tool and die maker then as a machinist was how he provided for his family. He enjoyed spending his spare time in his garage working on vehicles or tinkering with his many different machines he had collected.
He was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He found great enjoyment singing a repertoire of silly songs to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Some of those included: Little Brown Jug, Roll or Bowl a Ball—A Penny a Pitch, and songs he sang in German.
Survivors include his furry friend, Louie; son, Clayton (Cindy) Atkinson, Noblesville; two daughters, Dea (Richard) Stanley, Gas City, and Christine Olynger, Jonesboro; a special foster daughter, Norma Erickson, Indianapolis; grandchildren, Nakoa Scott, Max Friend, Rory and Tanner Stanley, Jacob, Jessica and Nathan Atkinson, and Benjamin and Gus Olynger; 12 great-grandchildren plus baby “O” on the way; and 1 great-great-grandchild.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Velma Jean; his oldest daughter, Elizabeth Friend; and his first grandchild, Cheyenne Scott.
At Terry’s request, there will be no services.
Donations may be made to Cancer Services of Grant County, Tower Suites, 305 S. Norton Ave., Marion, IN 46952 or Marion-Grant County Humane Society (in memory of Terry Atkinson), P.O. Box 1921, Marion, IN 46952.
Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral Service, Storey Chapel, 400 E. Main St., Gas City, IN.
Online condolences may be made at www.nswcares.com.