Daryl Atkins

An award-winning roper, accomplished scientist, successful businessman, citrus farmer, loving family man and true/best friend, Daryl Thomas Atkins passed away at his Clovis home following a two-year battle with cancer. He was 61.

The eldest of four sons born to Paul and Betty (Crawford) Atkins, Daryl was born in Lindsay, California on February 19, 1950. Daryl attended Weldon Elementary School and graduated from Clovis High School, Class of 1968. He was awarded a Bachelor of Arts in Animal Science from California State University, Fresno/Fresno State in 1972.

Continuing his education at Texas A & M University, he earned a Master of Science in 1975 and a PhD in Animal Reproductive Science in 1978. He stayed on the faculty at A&M, teaching numerous courses and conducting research in animal reproduction, pioneering embryo transfer in animals. He was recruited by the nearby world famous Circle 7 Ranch, where he led its horse breeding operation.

In 1983, he returned with his family to Clovis. He joined a family auto sales business that was acquired by CoPart, Inc. where he worked more than 20 years, including distinguished service as general manager of the Fresno location until illness forced his retirement in 2010.

Daryl's life-long passion was team roping. He won his first buckle at age 19 at the annual Three Rivers Lions Club Roping Event. Over his lifetime he participated in countless team roping and rodeo events winning numerous buckles, saddles, and various trophies. He was a member of many roping organizations including USTRC, ACTRA and WCRA. Devoted to his sport, he built an arena at his Sanger farm where he spent some of his happiest times with family and friends.

Daryl's life was marked with love for God, family and friends.

He is reunited with his mother, Betty, who passed away four months ago.

Survivors include his wife, Dr. Marketa Limova of Clovis, California; daughter, Corrine Folmer and her husband Matt; and sons, Brian Ellison and his wife Susan, Bryce Atkins and his wife Erin, Shane Atkins, Carl Olson, Peter Olson, John Olson and Tommy Olson; grandchildren Shelby, Sydney and Tanner; brothers Dennis, Derek and Danny Atkins.

Visitation will be held at Whitehurst, Sullivan, Burns & Blair Funeral Home on Thursday, January 19, 2012 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.

A Funeral Service will be held at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church of Fresno, on Friday, January 20, 2012, at 11:00 a.m., followed by interment at Sanger Cemetery.

Remembrances may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, 470 E. Herndon Ave. #102, Fresno, Ca 93720.