Richard Atchison

Richard A. Atchison, 70, of Machesney Park passed away Sunday, June 17, 2012 in Severn, MD. Born November 7, 1941, in Rockford, he was the son of Richard B. and Jane (Hart) Atchison. A graduate of East High School and a U.S. Navy Veteran, he married Joyce “Jill” Spickerman on June 15, 1968 in Rockford.

Richard was employed by the city of Rockford and Winnebago County 911 Center for 34 years before retiring in January, 2002.

An avid Chicago Bears Fan, Richard’s hobbies included playing the drums, bowling, golf, and woodworking.

Survivors include his sister, Sandra (Bert) Buffington of Machesney Park, brothers, Jim (Ginger) Atchison of Severn, MD and John (Deb) Atchison of Rockford; five nieces, Jennifer (Ed) Thatcher of Pasadena, MD, Christine (Chris) Hoffmann of Severn, MD, Carrie (Greg Bannister) Reinhold of South Beloit, Suzan (Jim) Milburn of Glen Burnie, MD and Laura (Paul) Seitz of Roscoe; numerous great nieces and nephews as well as several special friends.

Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce on March 13, 2009; his parents, Richard B. and Jane (Hart) Atchison; his pets, White Lightning, Suzie, and Gracie

The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD and Hospice of the Chesapeake for their care and compassion.

Memorial service at 10 a.m. Monday, June 25, at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N. Alpine Road, Machesney Park, interment in Sunset Memorial Gardens with military honors. Visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. Sunday, June 24, at Sunset Funeral Home. Rev. Randy Young will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to: NIL Police Memorial Week-Honor Guard, 806 East State Street, Cherry Valley, IL 61016. Online condolences at sunsetfhmemgardens.com.