"OMG! I am so sorry to here about Alan's passing. I just now found out. They were our neighbors for some time in Hampton. Alan, being the oldest, I didn't know him well, but remember him walking home from school everyday. Always seemed like a nice guy. Thinking of you and your family. He will certainly be missed by many."
In loving memory of
Alan J. Atkinson
March 28, 1944 - December 6, 2018
Alan J. Atkinson, 74, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, formerly of Hampton, passed away Thursday, December 6, 2018, at the Penrose-St. Francis Hospital in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Alan was born March 28, 1944, to Clifford and Phyllis (Jennings) Atkinson in Hampton, Iowa. He graduated from Hampton High School in 1962, then attended the University of Iowa in Iowa City, Iowa. Alan worked in construction and sales. He served his country in the United States Air Force, stationed in Germany. Alan was a member of the Hampton United Methodist Church. He enjoyed nature, fishing, working with his hands, Hawkeye sports, completing projects around the house, and yoga. Helping others and giving back to the community was an important part of his life, such as helping establish one of the first food coops in Minneapolis. He loved to hear and tell jokes, some that were quite elaborate.
He is survived by his daughter Tracy Atkinson of Colorado Springs, Colorado, daughter Carolyn Atkinson (Adam Popp) of Minneapolis, Minnesota, grandson Murphy Popp, brother Philip (Brenda) Atkinson of Buffalo, Minnesota, brother Michael (Kathryn) Atkinson of Hampton, Iowa, nephew Christopher Atkinson of Des Moines, Iowa, nephew Andrew (Amanda) Atkinson of McGregor, Minnesota, nieces Toni Atkinson and Teresa (Joe) Gillitzer both of Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, and other relatives. Alan is also survived by three special women who shared portions of his life. Tracy's mother, Sally (Buss) Peterson; Carolyn's mother, Julie (Lyman) Atkinson; and dear friend, Kathy Dannels.
Alan was preceded in death by his parents.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to The Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation (inhf.org), Trails and Open Spaces Coalition in Colorado Springs (trailsandopenspaces.org), or plant a tree in Al's memory.
Tributes
"My pictures posted without my tribute. My family loved Al for many years. My boys loved him like a grandfather and I loved him like a dad. I loved the relationship that they shared. We will miss Al so very very much. All my love to you all as you celebrate Al?s life. I wish I could be there with you all. "
"Al now probably knows that in Heaven there is no need to ?Measure Twice, Cut Once?. Wayne Brummer"
"Rest in peace Al. You will always be my best friend."
"My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. I have wonderful memories of Alan. I'm so saddened by the news. God Bless You... Janet Atkinson "
"One of the first persons I met at the Lake when he was living with Cliff and Phyllis. Great guy.....infectious laugh....hard worker.....kind heart. You will be missed, dear friend! Rick and Julie Salvesen"
"Just a great guy. So sport for your loss"