Brett Atkinson

Brett Allen "Lizard" Atkinson, 64, passed away peacefully at home on April 19, 2026, in Littleton, Colorado. Born on May 13, 1961, in Grand Junction, Colorado, Brett lived a life marked by intellectual curiosity, a deep love for the outdoors, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.

Brett’s educational journey was as dynamic as his adventurous spirit. After graduating high school in Grand Junction, he initially pursued an electrical journeyman license in commercial and residential construction. However, his thirst for knowledge led him to the University of Colorado in Colorado Springs, where he pursued an IT degree. Following the dot-com bust, Brett shifted his focus to hydrology and wetland management at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, earning a bachelor's degree. He later achieved a master’s degree from the University of Oregon in Corvallis and briefly pursued a teaching certificate at Mesa State University in Grand Junction.

Brett’s passions extended far beyond academics. An avid road cyclist and mountain biker, he found joy and freedom on two wheels. In his youth, he raced motorcycles and later became legendary for his love of skiing—whether downhill, back-country, or cross-country. True to his independent nature, Brett often opted to skin up mountains rather than purchase lift passes. He also reveled in canyoneering, backpacking, and climbing Colorado's iconic 14ers. His hands were rarely idle; he built and serviced bikes for himself and others with meticulous care and generosity.

Brett was also a talented photographer and eloquent writer who captured the beauty of the world around him with both lens and pen. In recent years, he embraced sewing and quilting as part of his art therapy while battling Parkinson's disease. Despite the challenges he faced, Brett remained active and found solace working out at the therapy pool to combat Parkinson's rigidity.

Those who knew Brett remember him as a kind and compassionate man who loved the outdoors and delighted in serving others. He shared his passion for cycling by tinkering with friends’ bikes free of charge and supported his wife’s gardening endeavors with affectionate tolerance. His love for flight and space reflected his boundless curiosity about the world beyond.

Brett is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 21 years, Deborah; his mother Janice Matticks and her husband Bob; his sister Bonnie Matticks; nephews Andrew Atkinson (Mariah), Robert Matticks (Erin), and Christopher Matticks; sister-in-law Lynette Atkinson; brothers-in-law Michael (Donna), Larry Garner (Rose), John Garner (Cherie); sisters-in-law Jeanette Garner; uncle Cliff McPherson (Jodie); uncle Kenneth McPherson; as well as numerous cousins. He was preceded in death by his father Bob Atkinson; brother Kelly Atkinson; sisters Lori Matticks and Anna Matticks; brother-in-law Douglas Perry; and sister-in-law Susan Perry.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation or the Davis Phinney Foundation in honor of Brett’s courageous battle with Parkinson's disease.

Brett Allen "Lizard" Atkinson will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, intellectual pursuits, artistic talents, and selfless heart. May his memory inspire those who knew him to embrace life with curiosity, compassion, and courage. A Celebration of Life will be held on April 25, 2026, at 10:00 AM at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 9800A Foothills Canyon Blvd in Highlands Ranch, Colorado.