Dorothy "Dot" Fern Atkinson

Dorothy Fern "Dot" Atkinson (née Gruchow) was a beloved wife, mom, nana, and friend. She lived a wonderful 88 years before passing on to heaven on October 24, 2026, in West Linn, Oregon, surrounded by her loving caregivers at Hidden Springs. She was born on St. Patrick's Day, March 17, 1938, in Stayton, Oregon, the second child of Elmer and Eva (née Franke) Gruchow. She and her sister, Darlene, grew up on the family dairy farm in Siletz, near Toledo.

In September 1958, Dot married Harold Steven "Steve" Atkinson in Toledo, Oregon. Together they raised their family in Portland. Dot worked as a switchboard operator at the David Douglas School District administrative offices in SE Portland. In 1989, Dot and Steve built their home in Happy Valley. They relocated to Gresham in 2002, where they made their home until 2023.

In Gresham, Dot and Steve deeply loved their church home at Mountainview Christian Church.

Family was at the center of Dot and Steve's life together, and they wouldn't hesitate to hit the road to visit the people they loved. Nothing made Dot's eyes sparkle quite like the wonder of a child. Always supportive of their grandchildren's interests, they were fixtures at countless games, performances, recitals, classes, and concerts. If they weren't meeting friends for breakfast or enjoying a camping trip, they were probably exploring the country in their RV together or planning a trip to Mexico. Mazatlán held a special place in their hearts. Dot and Steve had a gift for making the people around them feel like family, and nowhere was that reflected back more clearly than at Pueblo Bonito, where the staff always greeted them with a warm "Welcome home."

Dot was wonderfully creative. She was rarely without a project at her sewing machine or craft table, and Christmas bazaars were a highlight of her year. She loved painting and repainting the walls. Steve remarked, "By the time the paint was dry, Dottie was already plotting her next color." She delighted in collecting heirloom dishware, which led to their homes feeling effortlessly warm and eclectic.

Her heart was on full display in the food she lovingly prepared for her family. She would always inquire multiple times to ensure everyone had plenty to eat—and would never let you get away without a homemade treat. Those closest to her will likely remember her soft whistle of contentment—a signal that she had entered her creative flow state.

Dot was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 65 years, Steve, in July 2024; her youngest son, Corey; her grandson Colby, the youngest son of Rolin and Libby; her parents, Elmer and Eva Gruchow; and her sister and brother-in-law, Darlene and Art Imel.

She is survived by her son Rolin (Libby) and their son, Brogen; her daughter Becky (Buck); their son Levi (Jaydn) and their daughters, Presley, Blakely, and Lainey; their son Caleb (Samantha) and their son, Parker; Corey's wife, Christine; and Corey and Christine's children, Kendall (Austin) and Bailey.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Hada family, Anna, and Hidden Springs for surrounding Dot in God's loving care.

Dot will be laid to rest in a private family burial.