Obituary of Robert Atkinson

Robert E. Atkinson, 82, of Hobe Sound, Florida, died, May 29, 2009 at Treasure Coast Hospice, Hay-Madeira House, Stuart, FL.

Born in Lynn, Massachusetts, he had lived in Hobe Sound for over 25 years coming from Massachusetts.

During World War II he served in the U.S. Navy.

Before retiring he had been a bridge builder for the State of Massachusetts.

He had been a member of and a lay minister at the First United Methodist Church of Hobe Sound. He was also a member of the Watercolor Society.

Survivors include his wife of 33 years, Ruth E. Atkinson of Hobe Sound; a son Edward C. Atkinson of Umatilla, Florida; daughters Robin Atkinson of Crystal, Maine, Linda Thomas of Farmington, New Hampshire and Cathena Ferrero of San Diego, California; a sister, Virginia Kirkland of South Carolina, an uncle, Roland Atkinson; 10 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Geraldine Atkinson and a daughter, Nancy Bergstrom.

SERVICES: There will be a Graveside Service at 10:00 AM on June 2, 2009 at Forest Hills Memorial Park, Palm City with military honors provided by the U.S. Navy.

For those who wish, contributions may be made to the Treasure Coast Hospice, 1201 SE Indian Street, Stuart, FL 34997, (772)-403-4530 or on line at www.tchospices.org in Mr. Atkinson's memory.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Forest Hills Funeral Homes Palm City Chapel.