Richard Arnold 'Rich' Atkinson, passed away unexpectedly January 31st, at his home in Peoria, Arizona at the age of 75. He was born on October 21, 1947 in Jersey City, New Jersey, the son of Robert and Jean Atkinson (nee Zambrano). He grew up in Elmont New York, where he attended elementary school, and graduated from Elmont Memorial High School in 1965. Rich later graduated from St. John’s University College of Pharmacy in 1970 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Pharmacy. He began his career as a Pharmacist in New York City, and upon moving to Arizona in 1996, continued as a Pharmacist for the next 16 years at Fry’s Food and Drug before retiring in 2012.
On April 2nd 1995, Rich married Yolanda DeFede. A second marriage for both, they were a devoted couple who were inseparable over their 29 years together. They enjoyed many days together spending time with each other, their blended families, and their devoted friends.
Rich was soft spoken and kind-hearted, always finding time to answer questions or help solve a problem. He was an educator at heart who enjoyed mentoring young Pharmacists at throughout their careers. Among his many interests, Rich enjoyed fishing, playing cards, home improvement projects, watching the New York Yankees, playing pool, raising their dogs, cooking and grilling (he was well known for cooking the best Thanksgiving Turkey), and spending time with family and friends. He was preceded in death by his Parents Robert and Jean; as well as siblings Robert W. Atkinson, Doris Hadley, and his daughter Dierdre Atkinson.
We will all miss his smile, his steadfast presence, his wit, and his wisdom. Rich is survived by his wife of 28 years, Yolanda Atkinson, Peoria, AZ; two sons, Justin R. (Jennifer) Atkinson; Peoria, AZ; Ryan F. (Marcella) Atkinson; Huntington Station, NY. Stepdaughter Lorie A. (Alan) Laux; Peoria, AZ. Grandchildren: Ella Atkinson; Chelsea Heintz; Theodore Atkinson; Nicholas Parisi; Anthony Parisi and Brianna Melendez; Great Grandchildren: Cambria Parisi, Carly Parisi and Nora Parisi. Friends may call at Sunland Memorial Park, 15826 N Del Webb Blvd., Sun City, AZ on Monday February 20, between 3:00 and 7:00 p.m. A funeral service and interment will be held at the same location Tuesday February 21, at 11:00 a.m.
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