Berniece Atkinson

1928 - 2025

Berniece Dorothy Atkinson, age 96, of Wenatchee died peacefully on September 2, 2025. She lived a life focused on others, rooted in a deep faith in God. Hospitality characterized her life as she gave herself to making a home and made all who entered feel at home.
Berniece was born in Wenatchee, September 12, 1928. She grew up on Sunnyslope, a descendant of early Wenatchee Valley orchardists and the fifth of six children of Edna and Mose Wise. She lost her dad at age 9 to a tragic workplace accident. Part of the trio known as the "Silly Sisters" she enjoyed a close relationship with Audrey, Cathy along with her brother Calvin. She met and married Chuck Atkinson in 1952 when both were working at a construction project at Rock Island Dam. Married in December of that year, they began an odyssey together that included many moves to various job sites around the country, along with considerable time spent near San Francisco, CA.
Berniece and Chuck raised five children who sing her praises with comments such as; She was always a comfort in a time of need, a dedicated follower of Jesus. Mom could laugh at herself and by doing so, she would draw others into a moment of joy. She was always game for an adventure. Food was never just a meal; it was a celebration of life. She had a way of turning a sandwich into a banquet. She was a wonderful friend, an excellent seamstress and cook, and a loyal Seattle Mariner fan.
She returned to her beloved Wenatchee with Chuck in 2000 and lived out her final five years at Highgate Senior Living. There, even as her memory faded, she held on to her smile and sweet disposition. The family is thankful for the good care and love she received at Highgate.
Berniece is survived by five children, Charlie (Brenda) Atkinson of Wenatchee, Joan (David) Browning of Happy Valley, OR, Mark (Janell) Atkinson of Castle Rock, WA, Steve (Nancy) Atkinson of Portland, OR, Bill (Brenda) Atkinson of Boise ID, 15 grandchildren and 20 great- grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild and many nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held on October 4, 2025 at Trinity Church at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Young Life.