Robert Donald Atkins, 91 full years of age, of Hudson, WI died peacefully on Thanksgiving, after one last whisper of love to his wife of over 71 years. Of the greatest generation, Bob lived through and learned from the Great Depression, and though a pacifist, he served in the army during WWII. He married his one true love, Phyllis before leaving for boot camp in TX. After considering a career in law, Bob graduated from the U of M with an engineering degree and began his career working with American Hoist. He later became a long-time employee of 3M, managing a product that took him and his wife around the world for both business and pleasure.

Bob was active in the church and enjoyed singing and his involvement in Barbershop with fellow UMC members. He was an Eagle Scout and served as a leader in scouting for many years. He loved the outdoors, especially fishing and camping. Forever a family man, Bob strove to become a better man with each day he lived and his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren will attest to his success in that endeavor. Bob will be remembered as a religious and political philosopher and a loving and generous man.

Strong and compassionate, Bob worked hard to regain his strength and return home to be with his wife after surgery in August. His offspring were blessed to spend so much time with him and encourage that good effort during the recovery that was not to be. Bob was able to meet and hold his newest great-grandchild two days before he passed. His family is eternally grateful for the great care, love, and affection provided by the staff of both the Hudson Hospital and Hudson Christian Community Home during Bob’s final months.

Preceded in death by his mother Leita Lorraine (Bollinger), father Robert James Atkins, son Kent, and his father- and mother-in-law Julius Christian Nelson and Francis Charlotte (Chermak). Bob is survived by: his wife Phyllis (Nelson), children Laurie Hilty (Bill), Mark, Steve (Sheri Dubois), John (Stephanie Johnston), Leslie, and Sarah (John Hoggatt), 16 grandchildren and 8 (soon to be 9) great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life for Robert will be held at 2:30 pm on Sunday, December 15, 2013 at the Hudson United Methodist Church. Visitation will take place for 1 hour before time of service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the University of Minnesota Foundation, Union Gospel Mission, or Southern Poverty Law Center. Services are in the care of the O’Connell Family Funeral Home – Hudson Chapel. 715.386.3725