Jerry Atkinson

January 24, 2020

Jerry Atkinson

Service Details

Jerry Atkinson, 76, passed away January 24, 2020 at Kavanagh on 56th Street.

Jerry was born June 25, 1943 to Don and Rose Atkinson in Ames, Iowa. He graduated from AIB and Drake University. On May 11, 1968, he married Irene Savely, the couple was blessed with two daughters, Nikole Lynn and Amy Irene. Jerry taught in Des Moines Public Schools for 35 years. He particularly enjoyed the years he spent teaching in the Des Moines alternative schools. He received recognition and awards for his role as an impactful teacher that touched many lives. In his spare time, he enjoyed travelling with Irene and after retirement, spending winters in Texas. Jerry was very handy and could take on any sort of repair or project. Above all else, he enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Nikole (Mark) Joniak and Amy (Scott) Dace; grandchildren, Cassidy (Mike) Hayworth, Sarah (Kody) Dace, Matthew Monaco and Jenna Dace; sister, Dianne Smith; sister-in-law, Georgia (Mike) Beasley; brother-in-law, Todd Savely; as well as many loving relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 50 years, Irene; his parents, Don and Rose Atkinson; parents-in-law, Ben and Louise Savely; brother-in-law, Carl Savely; and his sister-in-law, Irene Savely.

The family will greet friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, January 30, 2020 at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street. Jerry will be laid to rest with his beloved wife, Irene at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Scavo High School Vincent Scholarship Fund, 1800 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50309 in loving memory of Jerry.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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