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Robert Eugene Atkinson Jr.
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Robert Atkinson Obituary
He was born in Providence, RI, son of the late Robert E. Atkinson and Theresa (Davey). He was the beloved Husband to Deborah Anne (Renehan) for 54 years.
Bob served his community as a Fire Fighter in Warwick, for 28 years rising to Battalion Fire Chief. As a helicopter aviator he also served his nation in the U.S. Army and RI Army National Guard for 31 years, earning a Distinguished flying cross for heroics saving 22 U.S personnel and 11 Allies with the AMERICAL Division in the Vietnam War. Bob was a fixture in the Matunuck Beach community, He stood up the Matunuck fire department and was their first captain from 1979 to 1982. He enjoyed all aspects of surfing, music and the beach lifestyle his entire life.
Besides his wife, Deb, Bob leaves behind the family who meant the world to him. He is survived by his three sons, Derek and his wife Chika, Mark, Josh and his wife Emily. He also leaves behind four cherished grandchildren, Liam, Leila, Benjamin &
Daniel. Bob is further survived by his brother, David and two sisters, Theresa & Debora.
Visiting hours will be held Monday September 15th, 2025,from 4pm to 7pm at the Avery-Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia St, Wakefield, RI.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on September 16th at 10am in St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 114 High Street Wakefield, RI 02879 with military honors rendered immediately following at the RI Veterans Cemetery in Exeter.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tunnel-to-towers foundation. For guest book and condolences, please visit averystortifuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Atkinson
Sponsored by Avery-Storti Funeral Home & Crematory - Wakefield.
3 Entries
Lisa Karin
Yesterday
Dear Deb and family,
We are deeply saddened to hear of Bob's passing. Your beach family wants you to know that you are in our thoughts.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Carpenter's Beach Meadow
Sheri Finnegan
Yesterday
So very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. God bless always
Mary Lou Adams
September 10, 2025
He will be missed and remembered by many
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Avery-Storti Funeral Home & Crematory - Wakefield88 Columbia Street, Wakefield, RI 02879
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