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Keith W. Atkinson, 94, of Parkersburg, WV passed away at his home on Thursday, July 18, 2024. He was born on April 8, 1930, to William Clair Atkinson and Esther Lillian (Martin).
Keith grew up in Harrisville, New York and was a 1947 graduate of Harrisville High School. After graduation, Keith attended Cortland State University before enlisting in the United States Air Force from 1950 – 1954 where he attended Finance School. He was proud to be a veteran and loved talking about his experiences as a member of the Azorian Basketball League. After serving in the Air Force, Keith moved to Charleston, WV, where he earned his Bachelor of Science In business administration from Morris Harvey College (University of Charleston) and met his beautiful wife, Phyllis, on a blind date. Upon graduation he began working for General Glass Company. Through his hard work, dedication and business mindset, Keith became part owner of the three branches and was the manager of the Parkersburg store for many decades and was a proud member of the Parkersburg Rotary Club for over 50 years and was able to use his finance skills when he served as the Treasurer.
Growing up, Keith loved sports and was a boy that could pick up and excel in most anything he tried. As an adult he was an avid fan of WV Mountaineer sports, the Chicago Cubs, and all things golf, even playing in the Worthington Senior Men's League this past year. He loved watching the golf channel, talking about golf, sharing tips and playing a round with his grandsons. His passion for golf began later in life, but his skills were evidenced by his stellar short game and three holes in one while a member of the Parkersburg Country Club.
Keith loved mowing his yard, hitting buckets of golf balls, and watching the deer graze his property. He was a member of St. Andrews United Methodist Church for over 60 years.
Keith leaves behind to cherish his memory, his wife of 67 years, Phyllis Sharon Atkinson, (Parkersburg, WV), his daughters, Diane Okraska and her husband Brian, (Greer, SC) and Kimberly Griffey and her husband, Chester "Chet", (Parkersburg, WV). He was a proud grandfather to 8 grandchildren, Christopher Wegmann (Jessica), Gregory Wegmann (Ashley), Jared Wegmann(Charlotte), Tyler Wegmann (Tarshie), Allison-Paige Hathaway Borman (Dan), Spencer Griffey (Sarah), Alexa Griffey, and Carson Okraska. He also leaves behind 6 great grandchildren, Emiree Griffey, Myah Griffey, Ellie Grace Wegmann, Lynndon and Landry Wegmann, Baylor Elizabeth Borman, brother Larry (Charlotte) Atkinson and sister Carolyn Jones (Tom) and dear friends, Bill Merinar and Mike Ferrell.
Keith is preceded in death by his parents Wm. Clair and Esther Atkinson, his daughter, Cynthia Atkinson, his brothers William Atkinson, Richard Atkinson and his sister Shirley Crump, and his beloved cockapoos, Annie and Molly.
Funeral services will be Monday 1 p.m. at the Leavitt Funeral Home, Parkersburg with Reverend Thomas H. Jones officiating. Visitation will be Sunday 3-6 p.m. and one hour prior to services.
The Atkinson family would like to add a special thank you to Amedisys Hospice for their loving care and support. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Keith's honor to Wounded Warriors Project, Amedisys Hospice or Parkersburg Humane Society.
Online guests may send condolences to the family by visiting www.LeavittFuneralHome.com.