Willard Earle ATKINSON

Willard Earle Atkinson Funeral arrangements by Atlantic Funeral Home (Dartmouth) ATKINSON, Willard Earle - 83, Dartmouth, passed away peacefully in Oakwood Terrace on Thursday, November 10, 2005. Willard was the last surviving member of his immediate family. Born in Port Saxon, Shelburne Co., he was the son of the late Gilbert Harley and Julia (Smith) Atkinson. Willard left Port Saxon at the age of 18 and went to work with the CNR, traveling between Halifax and Montreal. After leaving the railway, he went to the Radio College of Canada and upon his graduation, joined the Federal Government in 1946 as an electronic technician, starting at the Fredericton Airport. Upon furthering his studies, he transferred to Gander International Airport, then to Moncton, and in 1964 to Halifax International Airport, retiring in 1981 as Area Maintenance Supervisor Telecommunications and Electronics. Willard was an avid curler and was a long-time member of the Dartmouth Curling Club, which he referred to as his second home. Willard was also a member of Stairs Memorial United Church. Surviving are sons, Van (Faye) and Lester (Karen), Dartmouth; grandsons, David and Brian. He was predeceased by his wife, Winnifred "Winnie" Van Norden, in 2004, and his sister, Ruth Dash, in 1995. Very special thanks to all the staff at Oakwood Terrace for the years of compassion, care and friendship that was shown to Willard. A family service will be held Monday, November 14, at 2 p.m., in Mount Hermon Cemetery. Donations in Willard's memory may be made to Oakwood Terrace, Mount Hope Avenue, Dartmouth. On-line condolences by visiting: www.atlanticfuneralhomes.com