Obituary of Ronald Atkinson REV

Rev. Ronald Atkinson Age 69, of Manhattan, entered eternal life Thursday, January 1, 2009 at Silver Cross Hospital, with his family by his side. Born October 27, 1939 in Gentry, AR, he was the son of Ralph and Alta (nee Lunney) Atkinson. Ronald accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior in 1979 and was a Christian example to those around him on a daily basis. A highly decorated Marine Corps veteran, he served his country proudly with the Third Marine Division in Okinawa, attaining the rank of Corporal First Class. Ron received the calling of The Lord into Ministry and thus retired in 1994 from Commonwealth Edison after 30 years of service, where he was office manager and corporate trainer. In 1984, Rev. Ron Atkinson was a founding member of the Christian Family Ministries and served as President of the Board of Directors. He and his wife, the Rev. Doris Atkinson, were co-pastors of the Church of the Good Shepherd. Rev. Ron was the President of the Board of Lamb's Fold Center for Women and Children and was also an advisor for the Joliet Women's Aglow for over 10 years. Ronald was beloved by his family and friends as a husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather and mentor. Ron was dearly loved by his wife, Doris and absolutely adored by his grandchildren who fondly called him "Papa". Because of his Christian character, Ron was viewed as a father by many who will surely miss his love and sound guidance. Survived by his loving wife, Doris (nee Cottle) Atkinson; six children, Scott (Julie) Sweedler, Rhonda (Terrence) Sykes, Steve (fiancee Julia Adams) Sweedler, Kara (Michael) Landeweer, Brant Atkinson and Joseph Marchetti; eight grandchildren, Samuel and Jacob Sweedler, Marian Sykes, Kyra Adams and Joshua Sweedler, and Katelyn, Ryan and Alexis Landeweer; his siblings, Myrna (Lloyd) Wisdom, Lois (late Alf) Jones, Alice (Stan) Wilmer, Kenneth (Betty) Atkinson, Gerry (Sandy) Atkinson, and Joanne Larimore; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded by his parents, and one brother, Robert (Hazel) Atkinson. Going home celebration for Ronald Atkinson will be Monday, January 5, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home chapel. Interment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Lamb's Fold Center for Women and Children, 153 S. Ottawa St., Joliet IL 60436 would be appreciated. Visitation Sunday, 1-6 p.m. at: FRED C. DAMES FUNERAL HOME 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet For information: (815) 741-5500