Obie "Jerry" Atkinson

Obie Jerold Atkinson, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on September 29, 2025, at the age of 94. Born on September 19, 1931, Obie's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with hard work, love, and a spirit that truly knew no strangers.

Obie graduated from high school in Scappoose, Oregon, before embarking on his grand journey to Alaska where he spent 25 years and raised his children. Obie married Violet Marie Swedberg in 1955, and together they shared 48 years of marriage filled with dedication and family before her passing in 2003. He cherished the many memories they made together throughout their years.

Obie proudly served four years in the United States Air Force, where he was entrusted with the important duty of guarding nuclear bomb sites. His service reflected his deep sense of responsibility and commitment to his country.

Obie was a man of many talents and passions, dedicating much of his professional life to drywall, home remodeling, and construction. His work took him to remote Alaskan Native Villages, where he built schools under challenging conditions, often traveling by plane and helicopter to reach his job sites. He also spent an honorable five years as a volunteer for the College Station Medical Hospital. These pursuits showcased his relentless dedication and adventurous heart.

Obie's personality was as vibrant as it was captivating. He was outgoing, funny, and honest; a hard worker whose caring nature endeared him to many. He had a cherished passion for collecting Alaskan souvenirs and golden coins, and he had a particular weakness for chocolate. He was a loving father to his children and filled their lives with laughter through his funny stories and memorable nicknames for everyone he met.

In addition to his contributions in construction, Obie found immense joy in ranching, fishing, and hunting. One of his proudest accomplishments was purchasing his ranch in Montana, fondly named "Last Penny Ranch", a place where he found solace in the wide-open spaces and the gentle companionship of his cows. His love for the outdoors shone through in everything he did, including cheering on his favorite football team, the Denver Broncos.

Obie was also a man of faith. He found spiritual significance when he was baptized later in life at the First Baptist Church of Bryan, a testament to his enduring journey of growth and discovery.

He shared his life with his devoted wife, Helen Scherff Parsons Atkinson, whom he married in 2005. Together, they built a life steeped in shared interests and love for the community and their family. Obie is survived by his wife, Helen, and his loving children Barry Atkinson (Jana), Robin Atkinson Short (Jon), Kelly Parsons, Larry Parsons (Gloria), Suzanne Parsons, and Stacy Cherry. He was a proud grandfather to 10 grandchildren and a great-grandfather to 14 great-grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of love and fond memories that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Obie is preceded in death by his late wife Violet Marie Swedberg, parents, Obie A. Atkinson and Verna Jenkins Atkinson, as well as his siblings Don, Kenneth, Burl, Bobbie, and Bonnie. Their absence is deeply felt, yet their memories are lovingly preserved in the stories shared by those he touched throughout his life.

As we celebrate Obie's remarkable journey, we remember a man who embodied the spirit of adventure, the joy of family, and the value of hard work. His stories will carry on through generations, reminding us of a life well-lived and a heart full of love.