Robert David Atkins

June 1, 1934 - March 12, 2023
In Loving Memory ~
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Dave Atkins on March 12, 2023 at the age of 88 years. Dave passed away peacefully at Noric House with his loving wife by his side.
Dave will be deeply missed by his wife Fay of 44 years, sons Paul and Michael (Camilla) Atkins, Step-sons Kelly (Tracy) Okert, Allan (Janet) Okert, Terrance Okert, 7 grandchildren and step-grandchildren.
He was predeceased by his parents, his brother Peter and brother-in-law John.
He is survived by his older sister Wendy in England, nephew Christopher(Jen) in Utah and his cousin Jerry in Whiterock.
Dave was born June 1, 1934 in Birmingham, England to Robert and Gladis. He completed high school in England and worked various jobs surveying, as a motor parts man, farming and later running a sawmill in London.
In April, 1958, he married Barbara Wilson and they moved to Vancouver. In 1959, Dave attended UBC in an Emergency Training Program and completed 2 ½ years in 12 months to become a shop teacher. They relocated to Lumby in 1960 where he taught at Charles Bloom Secondary.
On February 25, 1962, Paul Gregory was born and October 21, 1965, Michael Robert Edwin was born.
In 1966 they moved into their new home on Tronson Road in Vernon and in September of 1967, Dave started teaching at Vernon Secondary.
On June 30, 1979, Dave and Eleanor Fay Okert were married and Kelly and Allan were blended into the family.
Dave retired in 1994. During retirement he became a Marine Surveyor and started his own business. He belonged to several clubs/associations including the Okanagan Landing Association - President, the Vernon Fish and Game Club, Vernon Yacht Club - Commodore, Vernon Power Squadron - Commander, CPS WCID - District Commander, BC Summer Games - Handgun Chairman and Vernon Snowmobile Association.
Dave will also be remembered for teaching shop, including electronics, drafting, auto mechanics, machining, plastics, consumer education, driver training, science and math. He brightened the future of 1000's of students over 34 years.
A Celebration of Life will take place May 13, 2023 at 12:00 pm at the Vernon Yacht Club. Snacks will be provided with a service to follow at 1:00 pm. There will be an open mic for anyone who wishes to express their memories of Dave.
As an expression of sympathy, those who wish to do so may make a donation to the Alzheimer's Association.