Donald L. Atkinson, Sr., 81, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on Thursday, September 10, 2026. He was born January 20, 1945, Donald was a longtime resident of Binghamton, New York, and will be remembered with deep respect for a life marked by steady devotion, faithful presence, and a kind-hearted way of caring for others that never sought attention, only the chance to help.
A graduate of Chenango Forks High School, Donald went on to serve his country as a proud decorated United States Vietnam Marine Veteran. He later retired from General Machine in Binghamton, NY, where his work reflected the same reliability and quiet pride that shaped so much of his life.
Donald’s greatest joy was his family. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he shared almost 57 years of marriage with his loving wife, Bonnie Atkinson. Bonnie and Don had a very special bond, and she could not have felt more loved. Their children never doubted his love for them. He lived for his family, and in countless everyday ways—especially in the warmth of game nights together—he showed what it means to be present, to be faithful, and to take care of everyone.
Donald also gave his time in service to others, volunteering for the Chenango Bridge Fire Company. His generosity was not occasional, but instinctive; he would have given the shirt off his back to anyone in need. He was faithful to his family and friends, and his kindness left an impression that reached far beyond his home—so much so that you would not find someone who didn’t like him.
Donald was predeceased by his parents, Frederick & Margaret Atkinson; siblings, Charles (Charlie), Kenneth (Kenny), Robert (Bob), Gary, Jerry and Margaret (Peggy); brothers-in-law and sister-in-law, Harold, Mike, Tom, Beverly, Connie and Jean; and mother-in-law and father-in-law, Beverly and Howard Heath, Sr.
Donald is survived by his loving wife Bonnie Atkinson; his son, Don Atkinson, Jr. (Lisa); his daughter, Daneile Atkinson (Fiancé Mark Cave, Sr.); his son, Jon Atkinson (Deidra); his grandchildren, Ryan, Colin, Brenna, Alayna, Caden, Devin and Keira; his brother, Dennis Atkinson (Rena); his brother-in-law, Howard Heath, Jr. (Barb); his sister-in-law, Lori Benjamin (Ray); and several, nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends including his oldest and best friend Jim (Marita) Root.
The family will receive friends at the Chenango Bridge United Methodist Church, 740 River Road, Binghamton, NY on Tuesday, September 15, 2026 from 10 am - 12 pm, with a Funeral Service to follow at 12 pm. Burial and Military Honors will be in Vestal Hills Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers kindly consider donations in Donald's name to Lourdes Hospice, 4102 Old Vestal Road, Vestal, NY 13850, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10306.
"Semper Fi Marines"
