Kenneth Lee Atkinson, 72, of Excelsior Springs, MO, passed away surrounded by loved ones on November 8, 2024. Ken was born August 8, 1952 to Mart and Delphine (Deschner) Atkinson in Knoxville, KY.
Ken graduated from Excelsior Springs High School and soon began his over 35-year career at Fort Leavenworth in Leavenworth, KS. Working in guest services, Ken was responsible for verifying identification for everyone entering the commissary. This gave him the opportunity to meet and make friends with people from all around the country. He received numerous awards including Outstanding Attendance, Outstanding Employee, Superior Performance, and in 1995 was awarded the Worldwide DECA Disabled Employee of the Year.
Born with cerebral palsy, Ken faced many challenges and did so with determination and perseverance. He was a man of strong faith and a devoted Lutheran, with memberships at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Excelsior Springs and St. Stephens Lutheran Church in Leavenworth.
Ken enjoyed reading, particularly American History. He was an avid baseball fan who loved the Kansas City Royals and rarely missed a game on television or the radio.
Ken enjoyed visits from friends from his church families and from his years working at the commissary. He made numerous friends during his final years at Valley Manor in Excelsior Springs and for a period of time lead Bible studies there. His family is thankful to each individual who treated him with kindness, cared for him, and took extra time to meet his needs.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Mart and Delphine Atkinson; and one nephew, Brandon Warren.
He is survived by his two brothers, Ron (Debby) Atkinson, Norman, OK, and Roger (Elvie) Atkinson, Kansas City, MO; and two sisters, Linda (Jody) Pasalich, Excelsior Springs, MO, and Marla (Phillip) Broadbent, Lawson, MO; and many nieces and nephews.
A visitation will be Friday, November 15, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, 1215 Baldwin Street, Excelsior Springs, MO. Graveside services will immediately follow at Hillcrest Cemetery in Excelsior Springs.
Arrangements in care of Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Excelsior Springs.
Our Sincere Condolences
Ken,
Although I never had much contact with you, you have demonstrated just how strong a man can be through his faith in our Lord, Jesus Christ.
God bless you and your family in the heavens above and here in earth.
Your trials are over, my friend.
George
