Dr. Roger Atkins

Dr. Roger Atkins
04/16/2025
Dr. Roger Atkins, renowned ophthalmologist and humanitarian, died at 87.
Dr. Roger Atkins, a revered ophthalmologic surgeon whose career spanned more than six decades, died peacefully on April 16, 2025, just two days shy of his 88th birthday. His passing marks the end of a remarkable life defined by brilliance and unwavering dedication to restoring sight and enriching lives.
Born April 18, 1937, on an apple farm in rural Iowa, Roger Atkins carried the values of diligence and compassion into every chapter of his life. After completing medical school in Iowa, he served as a flight surgeon during the Vietnam War, providing critical care under extraordinary conditions. It was during this time that his path toward ophthalmologic surgery began, ultimately leading him to Houston, where he completed his surgical training.
In the San Francisco Bay Area, Dr. Atkins became a pillar of excellence in eye care. He co-founded the Pacific Vision Foundation, a clinic dedicated to providing free, high-quality ophthalmologic care to the uninsured. During the last 18 years of his career, he joined Pacific Eye Associates, where he was widely respected for his diagnostic acumen, and unrelenting pursuit of the highest quality standards in ophthalmologic medicine. His commitment extended far beyond his practice; through his volunteer work with Doctors Without Borders, he restored vision and dignity to patients in some of the most underserved and precarious regions.
Dr. Atkins was as multifaceted as he was dedicated. A man of keen intellect and humor, he was known for his incomparable wit and warmth. He was a superb pianist, an accomplished bridge player, and a passionate supporter of the arts, where he brought a refined elegance to every gathering. He shared scuba diving adventures alongside his dear friend and protégée, Dr. Richard Hyder. Delving into the mysteries of the sea and those of human vision, Roger explored both with grace and intelligence.
Dr. Roger Atkins opened the eyes of thousands-literally and, among his friends, figuratively, with curiosity and affection. He leaves a void impossible to fill, yet his legacy will endure in every life he touched, every patient he healed and every cause he championed.
He is mourned by grateful patients, devoted colleagues, cherished friends, and all who had the honor to know him, for whom his memory will remain luminous.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pacific Vision Foundation in Dr. Atkins' honor.