Fredrick Keith Atkinson

Fredrick Keith Atkinson passed from this life February 19 at Baptist Health, following a long illness. Fred was born August 21, 1936 in Rogersville, MO. He is survived by Louise, his wife of 56 years; a daughter, Teresa Cantrell (Kerry), Louisville;a brother, Norris Atkinson of Springfield, MO and a sister, Geraldene Horrell (William) of Sarcoxie, MO and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a young daughter, Kathy Lynn Atkinson.

Fred was proud to be a veteran, having served in the U.S. Army, 101st Airborne. In 1969, he began working for the Boy Scouts of America, retiring as Program Director for the Old Kentucky Home Council. After retirement he immediately became involved as a volunteer at Historic Locust Grove, serving as docent and wood worker for more than 20 years. His dedication to educational efforts and preservation of the historic homestead earned him the Lifetime Achievement Award.

A voracious reader and student of American history, Fred was a member of the National Historical Society and the Kentucky Historical Society, and was the chairman of the Jefferson County Historical Marker program for many years. Few people can say that they have seen most every historical marker in Kentucky, but Fred could.Fred was a Kentucky Colonel, and a member of Okolona Church of Christ.

A celebration of Fred's life will be conducted Tuesday, February 24, 2015 at 10:00 AM at Arch L. Heady at Resthaven, 4400 Bardstown Road with private burial in Kentucky Veterans Cemetery Central. Visitation will be on Monday, February 23, 2015 from 2-8 at the funeral home.