He was sent to Haiti, where he learned both French and Haitian creole. He became the provincial treasurer of Haiti (1995-2000) and provincial superior of Haiti (2000-05).
His missionary work took him to Mexico and the U.S.
Father Atkin became general councilor of the congregation (2005-11), and then was elected general superior of the congregation (2011-17), all while living in Rome. He was a longtime member of the congregation’s Investment Management Board and the General Finance Committee.
He was director of the pre-novitiate program in San Antonio, Texas, and in Mexico, and was the formator of theology at the Missionhurst seminary in the Americas region.
He came to Missionhurst in Arlington to retire but was involved in several activities including organizing the Christmas displays on the grounds.
A non-smoker, he was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer in 2021.
A viewing will be held Sept. 11 at St. Ann Church in Arlington at 6 p.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be offered by Bishop Michael F. Burbidge Sept. 12 at 10 a.m. at St. Ann Church.
