Leon Atchison

1940 - 2021

Leon Atchison
Leon Atchison was born on September 30, 1940 in Oakland California to his beloved parents Horace and Lora Atchison. The family moved to Stockton when Leon was seven years old and he graduated from AA Stagg High School in 1958. He is survived by his middle sister Donna Stevenson and her two children Craig Ayers, Tricia Mullins (Tim), and his baby sister Sheila Heirs' daughter, Katie Shenoy. Leon passed away peacefully, at home in his own bed, on January 18, 2021 surrounded by family. He was called by the Angels to be with his baby sister Sheila Heirs, his parents and his beloved mother-in-law, Theresa Presto. We are sure they were all were waiting to welcome him in Heaven.
He will be greatly missed by his wife and high school sweet heart Joanne (Joni) Atchison. They would have been married 57 years this September. Together they raised three loving daughters, Shanda Wallace, Gina Ratto and Nicole Atchison. Leon had his 'own type' of relationship with each of his daughters. In his Eulogy, his daughter Gina, shared how 'proud she was to be his daughter'. That is the type of Father he was. He also leaves behind his wonderful Son-in-Law Mark Wallace who he spent many FUN weekends golfing with "Boys", both in Pinecrest and Santa Cruz.
His ability to love blossomed with the birth of his grandchildren; Logan, Loren, Coleman, Nolan and Anthony, who fondly called him "Papa Leon" and will certainly remember the good times they shared with him. You would find Leon at as many of his grand children's sporting events he could attend, whether it was cheerleading, dance, baseball, basketball, or golf. Leon himself loved to play baseball, go bowling, and play golf. Although some might say that he enjoyed the company and deck time after the round the most! Leon was best known for his witty sense of humor and his uncanny ability to deliver punchlines to jokes of which he had many.
He will truly be missed by his family and friends and may he rest in peace in Heaven. He was laid to rest on February 5, 2021 at a private service due to COVID-19 restrictions. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in remembrance of his life, laughter and love (and yes his 3x5 Index Cards with all his jokes will be on hand).
In remembrance of Leon, donations can be kindly made to Hospice of San Joaquin, 3888 Pacific Avenue, Stockton CA 95204.