The Excelsior Standard, Nov. 15, 2024

Kenneth Atkinson

Kenneth Lee Atkinson, 72, of Excelsior Springs passed away Nov. 8, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. Ken was born Aug. 8, 1952, in Knoxville, Ky., to Mart and Delphine (Deschner) Atkinson. Soon after graduating from Excelsior Springs High School, Ken began his career of 35-plus years at Fort Leavenworth in Leavenworth, Kan. 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 and Superior Performance; and in 1995, he was named 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 Mount 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, led 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.

He 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 of Norman, Okla., and Roger (Elvie) Atkinson of Kansas City; two sisters, Linda (Jody) Pasalich of Excelsior Springs and Marla (Phillip) Broadbent of Lawson; and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 15, followed by funeral services at 11, at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, 1215 Baldwin St., Excelsior Springs. Graveside services will immediately follow at Hillcrest Cemetery in Excelsior Springs.