Irene Atkinson

January 06, 2018

Service Details

Irene Atkinson, 71, passed away January 6, 2018 at Unity Point Methodist Medical Center.

Irene was born April 11, 1946 in Leon, Iowa. She was the third child of Gladys “Louise” (Smith) and George “Benjamin” Savely. She graduated from Central Decatur High School in 1964, where she was a very active member of FHA. On May 11, 1968, she married Jerry Lynn Atkinson. During their 50 year union they were blessed with two daughters, Nikole Lynn and Amy Irene. After starting a family, she stayed home to raise her children for many years. Irene participated in many school functions and was a troop leader for both Bluebirds and Brownies.

Irene later returned to work and was the head of shipping at Maurices Distributing. She later ran the Central Iowa office for Curtis Industries. In 1995, Irene retired to stay home and help care for her grandchildren.

She had a natural talent for sewing, crafting, quilting and crocheting. She made many beautiful gifts for friends, family, neighbors and charities over the years. Irene loved to read, collect antique dishes and was a wonderful cook.

Irene was a very caring mother and loved her family unconditionally. Her gentle spirit, love and kindness will be greatly missed.

Left to cherish Irene’s memory are her husband, Jerry Atkinson; daughters, Nikole (Mark) Joniak and Amy (Scott) Dace; grandchildren, Cassidy Monaco, Sarah Dace, Matthew Monaco and Jenna Dace; sister, Georgia (Mike) Beasley; brother, Todd Savely; sister-in-law, Dianne Smith; along with many nieces and nephews and other loving relatives.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ben and Louise Savely; parents-in-law, Don and Rose Atkinson; brother, Carl Savely; and her sister-in-law, Irene Savely.

The family will greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, January 11, 2018 at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street. A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, January 12th at Norwalk Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to John Stoddard Cancer Center.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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